Xi Jinping Concludes European Tour in Hungary
Chinese President Xi Jinping touched down in Budapest on Wednesday, wrapping up a five-day journey across Europe. His arrival signals the strengthening of ties with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, solidifying China’s influence in the region.
While many EU nations aim to lessen their dependence on China, Hungary continues to forge agreements with the economic powerhouse. This stands in contrast to the calls from French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen for Xi Jinping to foster more balanced trade relations with Europe and use his sway over Russia to address the conflict in Ukraine.
During his two-night stay in Budapest, Xi is slated to meet with Orbán and Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok to explore potential Chinese investments in Hungary. Despite pushback from other European leaders, Hungary has actively pursued economic partnerships with Beijing, extending beyond trade and investment to cooperation in public security and law enforcement.
Embracing Xi’s Belt and Road Initiative, Orbán has positioned Hungary as a key player in the EU bloc. The country’s diplomatic and trade engagements with autocratic regimes outside the EU and NATO highlight its delicate balance between regional alliances and economic ventures.
Prior to Xi’s arrival, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced plans to ink at least 16 bilateral agreements, underscoring the significance of Xi’s inaugural visit to Hungary as president. These agreements may pave the way for Belt and Road expansion, particularly in infrastructure and energy sectors.
Xi’s stop in Budapest comes on the heels of his visit to Belgrade, where a “shared future” agreement was reached with Serbia, a nation seen as friendly towards Russia. While China claims neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, concerns have been raised over its alleged role in bolstering Russia’s military capabilities.
Hungary, while denouncing the invasion of Ukraine, has refrained from endorsing EU sanctions against Moscow and providing military aid to Kyiv. With Hungary’s close proximity to the conflict zone, Xi and Orbán are expected to discuss the Ukraine crisis during their meeting.
Calling on China to spearhead peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, Hungary has thrown its support behind a peace plan proposed by China. – Euronews
