Words can be followed by deeds

Martin. M. Šimečka, editor in chief of the Czech weekly Respekt, observes the developments in Slovak-Hungarian relations with concern. In his opinion piece for the German-language Prager Zeitung he points to Bratislava's refusal to recognise Kosovo's independence. "One reason for this is Slovakia's fear that its Hungarian minority could follow Kosovo's example and demand independence or strive for reunification with Hungary. ... Many of the scandalous statements [of Slovak Prime Minister] Robert Fico or Jan Slota [to the effect that the Slovak army should train harder in order to be better prepared should Hungary attempt to invade southern Slovakia] can be interpreted as rhetorical exercises to win voters. But politicians' words can be followed by deeds. ... In two years' time it could well be that a no less dangerous populist wins the elections in Hungary: namely Viktor Orban. It is hard to imagine a worse constellation for Slovak-Hungarian relations."

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