Hungary's strict policy on immigration is both consistent with international law and ethically justified, the country's foreign minister has told CMG.

Peter Szijjarto said immigrants who reached Hungary from conflict zones in Africa and the Middle East were bound to seek asylum in the first safe country through which they passed, which meant none would be eligible for sanctuary in his country.

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In an interview with CMG's UN correspondent Xu Dezhi in New York, Szijjarto said, "We have to be very clear that international law says clearly that migration is not a fundamental human right, but it is a fundamental human right for everybody to have a safe and secure life at home. And this fundamental right of the Hungarians must also be respected."

He said some refugees had been responsible for crimes such as blocking delivery routes and attacking policemen. The top European court last year found Hungary guilty of breaking European law over its treatment of refugees and those who sought to help them. 

Nevertheless, Hungary insists it will not back down and prime minister Viktor Orban bolstered his position with a comprehensive victory in elections last month.

He denied that the country was demonstrating double standards by welcoming in hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian refugees on the grounds that Hungary borders Ukraine and is therefore the first safe country of arrival for some of those fleeing.

NATO expansion must have 'unanimous' backing

Szijjarto also explained the country's view on NATO's expansion – and why Turkey's concerns must be heard. 

"I have discussed with both of my colleagues, the Finnish and and the Swedish foreign ministers. I made it very clear that once they submit their application, Hungary is going to represent a positive approach in this regard," he said. 

"But the decision about the enlargement of the NATO must be made in a unanimous way. So we need the consent of all the member states, including Turkey, which has now concerns."

Turkey has opposed Sweden and Finland's entry to NATO because it alleges they support Kurdish independence groups, which the Ankara government classes as terrorists. 

"Our firm position is that Sweden and and Finland must put into consideration seriously the sensitivities of Turkey and they have to address them. If they cannot address, then there will be no unanimous decision possible," Szijjarto declared. 

CMG is the parent media group of CGTN Europe.