Hungary has no intention to further exacerbate tensions with another EU country but “no one can defame the country without consequences”, Péter Szijjártó told public television.

Scheltema said in an interview that Islamic extremism “applies the same principles to create an enemy as the Hungarian government”. In reaction, the foreign ministry recalled Hungary’s ambassador to The Netherlands for consultations in Budapest. Szijjártó announced that ambassadorial-level communication between the two countries would be discontinued for an indefinite period of time.

Bert Koenders, the Dutch foreign minister, told Szijjártó that their ambassador’s remarks did not reflect the Dutch government’s position in any way.

“There is obviously no connection between the Hungarian government and terrorism”, he said, adding that he was “unhappy” with the ambassador’s remark.

The Hungarian government will decide on further steps on Monday, Szijjártó said.

The root of disagreement is a difference in approach. European countries are either pro-immigration or pro-security, and Hungary views the safety of its citizens as its utmost priority. Economic ties between the countries are unaffected by the diplomatic conflict, he said.

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

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