Hungarian Politician Reaches Out to Chinese Community Amid Strengthening Diplomatic Ties

A Hungarian politician has written a letter to Chinese citizens residing in Budapest, a gesture that coincides with deepening ties between Hungary and China. According to 2022 census data, 98,319 foreign nationals live in Budapest, with Chinese citizens making up around 15% of this population.

Why this matters: The strengthening of diplomatic ties between Hungary and China has significant implications for global politics and economy. As Hungary takes over the EU presidency, its close relationship with China could influence EU-China relations and have far-reaching consequences for international trade and security.

The content and purpose of the letter remain unspecified, but it comes at a time of significant diplomatic activity between the two nations. Chinese President Xi Jinping is currently on his first European tour in five years, with Hungary being a key stop. Xi is set to meet Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to discuss various issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and infrastructure projects.

During his visit, Xi expressed his enthusiasm for the strong political trust and shared views on international matters between China and Hungary. In a pro-government daily, Magyar Nemzet, Xi stated, "I have developed deep friendships with Hungarian politicians and Hungary was the number one target in the central eastern European region for Chinese investment."

The visit also marks the 75th year of diplomatic relations between Hungary and China. Both nations are expected to sign 16 to 18 new cooperation agreements, including a significant infrastructure project under China's Belt and Road Initiative. Hungary has been a strong supporter of this initiative, which aims to build global infrastructure and energy networks.

China's investment in Hungary has been substantial, with companies like CATL and BYD establishing significant production facilities. CATL is building a 7.3 billion euro battery plant in Debrecen, while BYD has announced plans to construct its first European plant in southern Szeged. Tamas Matura, an assistant professor at Corvinus University, noted that "China brought battery production into Europe to save on shipping costs and to move production next to car factories of companies such as Daimler and BMW."

In addition to economic ties, China has offered cooperation on public security and law enforcement issues. Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong met with Prime Minister Orban to discuss collaboration in combating terrorism and transnational crimes. Wang expressed hope that these efforts would become a new highlight in bilateral relations.

As Hungary prepares to take over the six-month rotating EU presidency in July, the strengthening of China-Hungary relations could have broader implications for China-EU relations. Xi Jinping has encouraged Hungary to play a more active role in shaping these relations, citing the strong mutual political trust and similar views on regional and international issues.

The letter from the Hungarian politician to Chinese citizens in Budapest, though not elaborated, appears to be part of these broader diplomatic efforts to solidify ties and engage with the significant Chinese community in the city.

Overall, the ongoing diplomatic activities and economic investments highlight the strategic importance of the relationship between Hungary and China. As both nations continue to strengthen their ties, the impact on regional and international dynamics will be closely watched.

Key Takeaways

• Hungarian politician writes letter to Chinese citizens in Budapest amid deepening Hungary-China ties.
• Hungary takes over EU presidency, close relationship with China may influence EU-China relations.
• Chinese President Xi Jinping meets Hungarian PM Viktor Orban to discuss Ukraine, infrastructure projects.
• Hungary and China to sign 16-18 new cooperation agreements, including Belt and Road Initiative projects.
• China's investment in Hungary substantial, with companies like CATL and BYD establishing production facilities.