The Chairman of the Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania (UDMR) Kelemen Hunor believes that the approach to political decision-making in Romania, especially strategic decisions, must change, arguing that the perspective of the past ten years needs to be revised.

„We need to change the approach in Romania, because, whether we like it or not, politics is done in Parliament, it is done in government, it is done by a majority, good or bad — that is another discussion. But if we do not change the perspective and continue as we have over the past ten years, during President Iohannis’ term, when there was no explanation for any strategic or foreign policy decision, and we think it is fine to go on like that, then in my view this is a mistake. It is not about me knowing better or someone else knowing better, but about a lack of respect towards those who ensure the majority if you do not discuss important, extremely important issues with them,” Kelemen Hunor said on Euronews Romania, referring to the Mercosur agreement.

He added that no analysis had been presented so far.

„Even now, no one has produced a clear analysis showing what Romania’s economy stands to gain or why farmers would not lose out, despite the promised guarantees. Yes, quotas exist, but it remains unclear how they will be applied, who will trigger them and who will enforce them. From this perspective, farmers’ concerns are justified. Mercosur countries can produce enough beef to supply almost all of Europe. Once such products enter the EU market, controls effectively disappear because of full trade freedom. These are long-term commitments, and failing to debate them politically amounts to a lack of respect for citizens,” Kelemen Hunor explained.

Asked about President Nicusor Dan’s absence from the Davos Forum, UDMR leader Kelemen Hunor said it would have been worthwhile for the head of state to attend, even briefly.

He argued that a presence of one or two days would have been sufficient, stressing that Davos is an extremely important forum offering opportunities for dialogue with heads of state and government and other key international figures, relevant for Romania, Europe and transatlantic relations.

In his view, even without meetings with major leaders such as the US president, the forum provides ample opportunities for meaningful discussions. Hunor added that Davos would have been an important platform for Romania to articulate its position on the rapid changes unfolding globally, warning that the country risks appearing passive at a time when the world is moving at an astonishing pace.

He added that it remains to be seen what the Board pf The Peace proposed by US President Donald Trump intends to do.

Kelemen Hunor argued that Romania, as a relatively small country, must be realistic about its weight on the global stage. Economically and militarily, its influence is limited, while politically it has yet to project a consistently clear voice, sometimes giving the impression of uncertainty about its positioning.

In this context, he said, alliances become essential. Romania has a strategic partnership whose parameters are not always clearly defined, alongside its crucial status within the European Union. However, Hunor warned that without actively strengthening alliances and having the courage and strategic vision to engage directly at the decision-making table, the country risks remaining on the sidelines.

He cautioned that while avoiding such engagement may save resources in the short term, it comes at the cost of influence, leaving Romania informed after the fact but without a say. The key question, he concluded, is whether this approach serves a country that, in his view, should maintain a constant presence alongside its allies, participating fully and constructively in shaping decisions. AGERPRES