Beijing’s main interest in strengthening relations with Budapest is not about Hungary itself but about Europe as a whole. A friendly EU member means opportunities to shape EU-China economic and political relations more in the CCP’s favor. The long list of strategic sectors in which the two sides signed cooperation agreements during Xi’s Budapest visit… Continue reading Beijing Seeks a Gateway to Europe via Budapest
Germany – specifically, its automotive industry – is Europe’s true Achilles heel when it comes to China policy. Xi Jinping’s visit to Hungary, the final stop of his three-country tour of Europe, came amid the EU’s increasing concerns about his friendship with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban (as well as Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, who hosted… Continue reading China’s ‘Trojan Horse’ in the EU? It’s Not Just Hungary.
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has a plan: to make Hungary great in EV battery production. To realize this goal, his government announced a record €7.3 billion Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery plant investment in 2022, which is already under construction. According to the Hungarian government, the investment project will create jobs for locals, be… Continue reading China’s Controversial €7.3 Billion EV Battery Investment: A Game Changer in China-Hungary Relations
During the 3rd Belt & Road Forum in October 2023, Orbán secured more investments and new cooperation agreements with the China-based tech giant Huawei. The Hungarian prime minister is committed to deepening ties with Beijing despite domestic concerns and warnings from other EU and NATO countries against Chinese presence in strategic sectors. On October 17-18,… Continue reading Orbán Doubles Down on Turning Hungary into a Regional Hub of Chinese Influence
