Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas. Texas, USA), one of the country's largest gatherings of conservative activists, has raised concerns that Republicans are supporting an autocrat who is criticized for undermining democratic institutions and strengthening authoritarian rule in his own country, AP NEWS reports..

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Other speakers at the conference included former US President Donald Trump..

Orban's invitation to the conference reflects the growing recognition among American conservatives of the Hungarian far-right leader, whose country has a hardline policy against immigration and LGBT rights and is ruled by a one-party government.. Orban is also considered the closest ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the EU..

His visit to Texas came after a wave of indignation rose in his homeland over a speech in which Orban spoke out against turning Europe into a "

In a speech to American conservatives, Orban dismissed the criticism, saying his government does not tolerate racism.. Conference organizers praised him for opposing the EU.

During this meeting, Orban called Hungary "

He has described himself as a defender of what he calls "

Before Orban even took the stage in Texas — the second most populous Republican-controlled US state — Trump had already hosted him in Florida..

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President Joe Biden has no plans to speak with Orban during his US trip, White House official says.

Orban served as Hungary's prime minister from 1998 to 2002, but it was his performance since taking office in 2010 that sparked controversy and fears that Hungary was slipping into authoritarian rule..

Orban portrays himself as a defender of European Christianity against Muslim migrants, progressives and "

Orban has consolidated power over the country's judiciary and media, while his party has carved up legislative districts in such a way that it is very difficult for opposition parties to gain seats in parliament..

Such moves led international political observers to call Orban the face of a new wave of authoritarianism..

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The European Union has launched numerous legal proceedings against Hungary for violating EU rules and is blocking billions in recovery funds and loan programs due to Hungary's violation of rule of law standards and insufficient anti-corruption guarantees.

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