China and Hungary finalized 18 collaboration agreements after a meeting between Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Budapest. These agreements cover various areas such as promoting Chinese Communist Party propaganda in Hungary, enhancing agricultural cooperation, and furthering the reach of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in the country.
Orbán hailed China as a significant player in the new world order and pledged to maintain a cordial foreign policy towards the CCP. The two leaders also announced the elevation of China-Hungary relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Orbán expressed gratitude to Xi for supplying Hungarian with Wuhan coronavirus vaccines, which he claimed saved many lives. In return, Xi appreciated Hungary’s support on various international issues concerning China. Orbán’s government has been supportive of China despite its human rights abuses and aggressive foreign policies.
The agreements signed between the two countries include cooperation in finance, investments, green development, and the establishment of supply chain cooperation between Chinese and Hungarian enterprises. Several agreements also focus on linking Chinese state propaganda outlets with Hungarian media.
The Chinese government praised Hungary for its commitment to friendly relations with China and its support on key Chinese foreign policy matters. Hungary has become increasingly reliant on Chinese investments and collaborations in various sectors, despite concerns about potential risks associated with the growing Chinese influence in the country.
Overall, the meeting between Orbán and Xi solidified the bond between Hungary and China, with both parties emphasizing the importance of mutual trust and cooperation in their relationship.
