They believe these are outdated and a new identity is needed to replace the identities of previous eras; a new European identity in which the former identities are dissolved and lose their significance,” he said. “Britons said no to this; they wanted to remain British,” Orbán added.

“Now the big moment has arrived, because we think that national and faith identities still have a role, and there is no European identity that can replace these ...” he said.

“This is why it has to be stated that it is important to protect and nurture national and Christian values,” he said. Orbán said that the migration crisis strengthens this argument, given that “whoever comes here has a stronger identity than European peoples in general, and this is why there is growing isolation in society.”

Orbán stressed that central Europe is successful and has an identity, so “the intellectual restoration of Europe can start from here, to make the whole of Europe successful and competitive.”

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.

MTI Photo: Szecsődi Balázs