BUDAPEST, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa highlighted Hungary's close ties with the European Union (EU) and the benefits of European integration on Friday, addressing a special session of the Hungarian parliament.
Von der Leyen welcomed Hungary's renewed commitment to the EU, describing the country as an integral part of the European family.
"Your story is our European story. Your future is our European future," she said.
Addressing Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar, von der Leyen welcomed the government's efforts to strengthen anti-corruption legislation, increase transparency in public spending and reinforce the rule of law.
She said these reforms were producing tangible results, including the return of EU funding and renewed access to European research and education programs, such as Horizon Europe and Erasmus+.
Von der Leyen also pointed to further funding opportunities under the EU's NextGenerationEU recovery program, saying that Hungary's renewed engagement would contribute to a stronger Europe.
For his part, Costa emphasized the economic and social benefits Hungary had gained since joining the EU in 2004.
Over the past 22 years, Hungary's economy has nearly tripled in size, while average wages have increased fivefold, Costa said.
He recalled that the EU currently accounts for nearly 80 percent of Hungary's exports and almost 70 percent of its imports, highlighting the country's integration into the European single market.
Costa also stressed that European cooperation helped strengthen competitiveness, strategic autonomy and economic resilience, while creating opportunities for investment, innovation and job creation.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of European unity and cooperation, describing Hungary as an important part of the European project. ■
