Hungary’s Orban Declares Meloni as ‘Christian Sister’ with Shared Cultural Roots, According to Reuters

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban praised his close relationship with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during an economic forum in Cernobbio, Italy, referring to her as his “Christian sister.” He emphasized the increasing importance of cultural identity in European politics.

Meloni, who has been in office since 2022 at the head of a right-wing coalition, began her political career in a post-Fascist party but now identifies as a national conservative.

“She is not just a colleague; she is a Christian sister,” Orban stated to reporters. He noted that cultural roots, which previously held little significance in European politics, are becoming more relevant in the current political climate.

Prior to her rise to power, Meloni made headlines with a declaration of identity that included her roles as a woman, mother, Italian, and Christian, asserting that these aspects of herself are inalienable.

Both leaders share common ground on various issues, particularly regarding the need for stricter immigration controls and a defense of traditional family values in response to what they perceive as pressures from the LGBT community.

Orban has positioned himself as a protector of Hungary’s cultural identity against Muslim migration and a defender of Christian values against the influences of Western liberalism. In contrast, Meloni strongly supports Ukraine, while Orban has been critical of the European Union’s assistance to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.