Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban (Photo: AFP/ VNA)

Taking over the presidency from Belgium, Viktor Orbán’s government will set the weekly agenda and chair ministerial meetings in Brussels.

János Bóka, Hungary’s Minister for European Union Affairs, said Hungary will focus on areas where there is the strongest demand for change, such as improving European competitiveness, which underpins the Union’s prosperity, employment, and economic growth.

Another significant focus will be the reinforcement of European security and defense policy. “Strengthening Europe’s peace and security are of paramount importance”, Bóka asserted.

The presidency will also address the ongoing migration crisis by strengthening the EU’s external borders and fostering international partnerships, he added.