Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze delivered a keynote address at CPAC Hungary on Saturday, marking his third consecutive appearance at the influential conservative political conference. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán lauded Kobakhidze, declaring Georgia the ‘bravest nation in Europe’ during the event. CPAC Hungary, initiated in 2022 and expanding globally, showcased a diverse lineup of conservative figures, including Argentinian President Javier Millei, Alice Weidel, Geert Wilders, and numerous US-based politicians and commentators.
Former Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili previously spoke at the conference in 2023, following Kobakhidze’s initial appearance in 2024. Kobakhidze’s address, held before returning to Georgia to attend the funeral of Patriarch Ilia II, focused on honoring the late leader of the Georgian Orthodox Church. He emphasized the importance of protecting Georgia’s national and religious identity, citing the nation’s historical reliance on a strong cultural foundation rooted in Christian tradition.
This sentiment was coupled with a critique of Georgia’s paused efforts to join the European Union, expressing a hope that Europe would restore its sovereignty and traditional values. Later, Kobakhidze criticized the EU’s perceived interference in Hungary’s domestic affairs, condemning what he termed “Brussels bureaucracy” lacking sovereignty. Orbán echoed these sentiments, praising Kobakhidze as a ‘patriotic champion’ and highlighting his ‘courageous struggle’ against the EU.
Orbán himself declared Georgia the ‘bravest nation in Europe’ during his remarks. The conference, themed ‘On to Victory,’ featured prominent figures like former President Donald Trump and Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, who delivered video addresses. Georgia’s 2025 GDP grew by 7.5% due to a surge in its IT sector, which experienced growth rates of 29%.
The event underscored the strong relationship between Kobakhidze and Orbán, with the Hungarian leader viewing Kobakhidze as a key ally in defending Georgia’s sovereignty.
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