Belgium criticizes Hungary for migrant bus threat to Brussels

Belgium's top migration official, Nicole de Moor, has publicly condemned Hungary's recent threat to send a bus convoy of migrants to Brussels. This action is seen as a retaliatory measure against the European Union's policies, particularly following a ruling by the European Court of Justice that imposed a hefty fine on Hungary for its non-compliance with EU asylum regulations. The fine amounts to 200 million euros, with an additional daily penalty until Hungary aligns its policies with EU law. De Moor emphasized that Hungary's proposed action undermines the principles of solidarity and cooperation within the EU. She stated that Belgium advocates for a coordinated approach to migration that respects European values and international obligations. The Belgian government has made it clear that if Hungary proceeds with the bus convoy, it would be a violation of both European and international agreements. Furthermore, the statement from De Moor's office highlighted the logistical challenges of such a convoy, noting that the buses would need to unlawfully cross the territories of other EU member states, such as France or Germany, to reach Belgium. Currently, these countries have implemented border checks due to security concerns and the ongoing migrant crisis. In response to the situation, De Moor has instructed Belgium's EU ambassador to engage with his Hungarian counterpart regarding the threat. She has also called for the European Commission to take a strong stance against Hungary's actions, reinforcing Belgium's commitment to upholding EU laws and agreements.