Sino-Hungarian relations, “a golden cruise”

Prime Minister Victor Orban stated in an interview to CMG that the current visit to Hungary by President Xi Jinping has historical significance. This resides primarily in the China-Hungary Joint Declaration, regarding the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership relationship for all conditions, in the new era. Analysts claim that raising bilateral relations requires a new level of mutual political trust, strategic consensus, coordination and partnership. It is also estimated that based on the document, regardless of international changes, China-Hungary relations will withstand all tests. In addition, the more than ten signed agreements give new energy to future cooperation.

In the past 75 years, since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, the two states have persevered in equal treatment, trust and mutual help in mutually beneficial collaborations, and many stories of friendship have been created.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, China offered Hungary a large amount of sanitary materials, which were met by Prime Minister Orban at the airport. At international events, Hungarian representatives have repeatedly promoted strong support for China’s core interests. Hungary is the first European country to sign the cooperation agreement in implementing the “One Belt, One Road” initiative.

In Hungary, Chinese food, traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese language and Chinese martial arts enjoy great popularity. In China, Hungarian beef, wine and many other quality products are sought after on the market. All this proved that Sino-Hungarian relations have entered the best period of development.

President Xi pointed out that in the future, the two countries must support each other’s core interests and major concerns, strengthen the connectivity of their own development strategies, and expand the partnership in new areas such as clean energy and Artificial Intelligence. Also, closer human-to-human exchanges are expected, as well as more intense coordination for the defense of international equity and justice.

During the visit, President Xi expressed firm support for the path chosen by the Hungarian people in accordance with the country’s concrete situation. For their part, the Hungarian leaders emphasized that they will respect the principle of the existence of one China.

China and Hungary are good partners with mutual benefits. In recent years, the cooperation between the two countries, in the field of new energy, is particularly flourishing. NIO, BYD and other Chinese new energy car companies have invested and opened factories in Hungary. Chinese companies have also invested in the construction of the Kaposvár photovoltaic plant, which can help Hungary reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 120,000 tons annually.

According to the joint statement, the two sides will promote in-depth coordination of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and Hungary’s “opening up to the East” strategy. The list of documents signed during the visit clarified the key cooperation projects under the third round of the “One Belt One Road” initiative between China and Hungary. According to Prime Minister Orban, the achievements of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative in Hungary are unmatched throughout Europe, generating tens of thousands of jobs and economic prosperity.

Orban also stated that he does not agree with the so-called overcapacity or risk reduction, he considers China’s development to be an opportunity rather than a risk for Europe.

China and Hungary are also “good relatives” who share the same feelings.

When President Xi landed at Budapest Airport, Prime Minister Orban greeted him, saying, “Welcome home.” Such an affectionate expression reflects the deep friendship between China and Hungary.

This time, the two sides decided to optimize entry policies and strengthen direct flights between the two countries, which will make it easier for people to travel.

Prime Minister Orban also once stated that, more than ten years ago, he understood that Hungary’s future would largely depend on relations with China. Now that China-Hungary relations have reached a new level, the two sides will work together more closely to achieve common development and prosperity, lead China-CEE cooperation in a more profound and practical way. Bilateral relations with Hungary, which is entering a “golden cruise”, offer new opportunities.

Article by Radio China International and CCTV