German chancellor congratulates Orban on election win

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has congratulated Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on his win of Sunday's general election, the federal government's spokesman said. Merkel congratulated Orban "in the usual manner", Steffen Seibert said, adding that Hungary can count on Germany as a reliable partner in addressing bilateral issues. Germany and Hungary have strong ties going back to a long and fruitful history and partnership, Seibert cited the chancellor's letter as saying. The controversial issues in the two countries' relations, such as migration, are not to be overlooked, Seibert said. However, the chancellor and Germany are ready to develop bilateral ties "within the framework of our shared EU membership and European values," Seibert added.