The annual conservative conference features leaders from around the world, focusing on sovereignty and responses to globalization.
The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) Hungary officially commenced under the auspices of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, marking a significant annual event in the nationalist political landscape.
This year's gathering attracted speakers and attendees from thirty countries across six continents, including heads of state, party leaders, and noted right-wing thinkers.
The conference aims to forge a concerted response among patriotic forces to the challenges posed by globalization, reinforcing international cooperation rooted in sovereignty.
At the opening, a personal video message from former U.S. President
Donald Trump was presented, expressing gratitude for the event's organization.
In the video, Trump praised Orbán as a 'great man' and reflected on their shared efforts in political struggles.
In his address, Orbán recalled his predictions from last year’s CPAC, reiterating his belief that Trump would win the American elections, which he did.
He noted that Hungary would also hold elections in the upcoming year, leaving little doubt about his political ambitions.
Orbán welcomed attendees warmly, emphasizing the notable presence of leading European and American patriotic figures at the conference.
He highlighted their resilience in navigating political challenges and contrasts between patriotic leaders and their liberal counterparts in Europe.
Throughout his speech, Orbán commended the international network of patriotic leaders, describing them as those who have faced significant political adversities yet continued to champion their national causes.
He expressed admiration for their perseverance, suggesting that their experiences have given them a unique strength compared to liberal leaders.
Specific attention was given to prominent figures in attendance, such as Matt Schlapp, a key figure in the American conservative movement, who has played a crucial role in branding CPAC as a global event.
Orbán asserted that the conservative revival is emerging from Central Europe, influenced by the successes seen in Hungary.
Orbán also congratulated Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, recognizing him as a hero of the international patriot movement, praising his substantial electoral victory against liberal opposition while fostering significant economic growth amidst geopolitical tensions.
Referring to North Macedonia, Orbán acknowledged the local leader’s election win against Brussels-supported opposition, branding him a defender of southern European borders against migration.
He similarly praised Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico for his resilience following severe political attacks.
The address continued with references to key political allies across Europe, including Czech former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, who played a role in Hungary's position as a migration-free region, and Spain's Santiago Abascal, who was lauded for his fight against oppression in his country.
Observations were also made regarding the current political climate in Poland, underscoring the challenges faced by conservative leaders in the upcoming elections and criticizing perceived infringements on democratic norms by liberal establishments.
Orbán notably highlighted the significance of Alice Weidel from Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD), describing her presence in contrast to Brussels leadership, and praised Herbert Kickl from Austria for his foundational contributions to the nationalist movement.
The conference also saw recognitions for political figures like Geert Wilders from the Netherlands, reflecting on the threats he faces due to his political stance, and underscoring the broader struggle for conservative values within Europe.
As the conference progressed, Orbán expressed a strong stance against liberal policies and articulated the narrative of a 'civilizational shift' inspired by the political climate changes represented by Trump's electoral success.
He asserted that conservative victories signal a resurgence of hope amidst widespread political challenges.
Closing the remarks, Orbán emphasized the need for European unity among sovereign states to realize a collective vision of peace and stability, alluding to what he described as an ongoing assault on European identity by Brussels.
He framed the conversation as a pivotal choice between liberal and patriotic futures for Europe.