Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto in Beijing on Wednesday to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Hungary.
Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted new opportunities for bilateral relations. He emphasized China’s commitment to maintaining close contact with Hungary, implementing the important consensus reached by the two leaders, and continuing their traditional friendship. Wang also spoke about deepening political mutual trust and advancing Belt and Road cooperation to elevate bilateral ties to a higher level.
Expressing appreciation for Hungary’s determination to deepen cooperation despite external pressures, Wang stated that the fruitful and mutually beneficial collaboration between the two nations demonstrates that China is an opportunity rather than a challenge, and a partner rather than an adversary to Europe.
As Hungary prepares to take over the rotating presidency of the EU in the latter half of the year, Wang expressed hope that Hungary would encourage the EU to view China’s development in a rational and friendly manner, advocating for a more positive and pragmatic policy towards China.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Szijjarto responded by affirming Hungary’s opposition to decoupling from China. He reiterated that viewing China as a threat would only result in missed opportunities and that treating China as a partner is the right approach.
Szijjarto welcomed increased Chinese investment in Hungary and expressed Hungary’s willingness to advance key Belt and Road Initiative projects. He highlighted the mutual benefits of deepening cooperation between the two countries.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
