China's National People's Congress Standing Committee Chairman Zhao Leji concluded a five-day visit to Hungary this week, cementing economic partnerships and cultural exchanges under Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The high-level meetings underscored Hungary's strategic role as China's gateway to Central and Eastern Europe.
During talks with Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, Zhao emphasized the 'all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership' established during President Xi Jinping's May 2024 visit. Key infrastructure projects like the Hungary-Serbia Railway – a flagship BRI venture connecting Budapest to Belgrade – were highlighted as models of cross-continental cooperation.
'Our relationship stands on three pillars: mutual respect as friends, mutual benefit as partners, and mutual understanding as brothers,' Zhao stated during a joint press briefing. The legislators agreed to expand collaboration into emerging sectors including AI, green energy, and digital infrastructure.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban praised China's development model, stating: 'Hungary's strategic alignment with China brings technological advancement and market access crucial for our economic sovereignty.' The leaders announced plans to increase Hungarian agricultural exports to China while ensuring policy support for Chinese tech firms operating in Hungary.
With 2024 marking 50 years of China-EU diplomatic relations, Zhao urged Hungary to help 'stabilize and deepen' Europe-China ties. Both legislatures committed to synchronizing legal frameworks that facilitate joint ventures, particularly in renewable energy projects.
Cultural diplomacy formed a key agenda item, with new exchange programs planned for youth, media professionals, and academic institutions. Speaker Laszlo Kover of Hungary's National Assembly noted: 'A multipolar world needs China's constructive role – cooperation benefits global equilibrium.'
As night fell over the Danube River, the two nations finalized agreements suggesting Hungary could become Central Europe's hub for Chinese electric vehicle production and smart manufacturing solutions. This development aligns with Hungary's Eastern Opening strategy, now intricately woven with BRI's transcontinental networks.
