CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE FROM HUNGARIAN POLITICAL

UNCLAS BUDAPEST 001083 SIPDIS FOR S/ES-CR, S/ES-O, EUR/NCE FOR JAMIE LAMORE E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OPDC PREL OVIP HU SUBJECT: CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE FROM HUNGARIAN POLITICAL PARTY LEADER ORBAN REF: SECSTATE 118192 ¶1. Following is the text of a congratulatory message to President-elect Obama from Viktor Orban, Chairman of Fidesz - Hungarian Civic Union, received November 10, 2008. ¶2. Begin text Dear Senator Obama, I wish to congratulate you whole-heartedly on your spectacular victory at the 2008 presidential election. In times of hardships, the notion of change is especially appreciated and its message falls on fertile ground all over the world. In Europe, and particularly in Central Europe, where Trans-Atlantic integration became a focus point under the previous Democratic administration, a new generation of democracies welcomes you with devoted attention as a leading representative of a new generation of leaders who will bring strong leadership in our value-driven co-operation on a wider than ever range of issues. This election has given us more opportunities than any previous ones to focus on the United States of America, what she represents and her unique role in the world. I especially welcome the brave portrayal of groundbreaking ideas that you set out in your acceptance speech. I believe that with your leadership the United States will stand out as a true champion of global awareness in the fields of security, economy and environment, and will embark on new paths regarding the role of state and community in domestic affairs. I would like to express my thanks for your message to the Hungarian community on the anniversary of the 1956 revolution. Many of us value those days as the turning point in the relations between our countries, the heart of our common understanding and the basis for our future endeavors. Yours sincerely, Viktor Orban Chairman of Fidesz - Hungarian Civic Union Former Prime Minister of the Republic of Hungary End text. Foley