László Palkovics, Minister for Technology and Industry outlined his strategic vision for industry and technology development as well as the government's policies in energy, waste managament and transportation at our Business Forum on July 11.
In his keynote, Minister Palkovics said his mission is to continue the technological and industrial reforms that were started in the previous term to raise Hungarian industry to the forefront of technology-driven European industry, and to adapt the energy system of Hungary to meet the demands and uncertain conditions of our times.
Energy Security Is the Key Challenge
Since the invasion of Ukraine, the energy security has been the most burning question for European countries. Minister Palkovics said the situation poses difficult challenges and the goal is to gain independence from Russian imports in a balanced way. Presently, natural gas remains indispensable as transition fuel, but the long-term plan is to diversify when alternatives become cost competitive.
Palkovics reiterated; however, that harnessing green energy sources is a must for Hungary, a net energy importer.
Environmental Protection Still a Priority
Minister Palkovics also discussed his priorities for environmental protection, with the key pillars being efficient and sustainable water and waste management, advancing circular economy in cooperation with industrial and economic stakeholders, high-quality, environmentally friendly public transportation and infrastructure development, supporting alternative and efficient heating and fuels.
Palkovics said Hungary is on track to meet its 40% emission reduction commitment, but reaching Fit for 55 targets will be challenging.
Prior to the forum, an AmCham delegation led by President Zoltán Szabó and CEO Írisz Lippai-Nagy had a closed door meeting with Minister Palkovics to talk about key points from our Cooperation for a More Competititve and Sustainable Hungary 2022-23 recommendation package focusing on energy and climate strategy, sustainability, adult education, and labor policies.
We would like to thank BT ROC, Continest and Philip Morris International Hungary for making the event possible.