Silk Road between Beijing and Budapest – A Snapshot of Sino-Hungarian Relations
The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) held its roundtable discussion entitled “Silk Road between Beijing and Budapest – A Snapshot of Sino-Hungarian Relations” on May 8, 2024. Panellists included Ju Weiwei, Vice President and Managing Director of the China-CEE Institute, Kong Yuan, Research Fellow of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and Gergely Salát, Senior Research Fellow of HIIA. The discussion was moderated by Péter Goreczky, Senior Analyst of HIIA.
The roundtable discussion provided a comprehensive exploration of the intricate relationship between China and Hungary, with a particular focus on the implications of the Belt and Road Initiative and connectivity strategies. The ensuing discussions delved into various aspects of the China-Hungary relationship, with an emphasis on both opportunities and challenges. The speakers elaborated on the imminent state visit of President Xi Jinping to Hungary, emphasizing its potential to significantly enhance bilateral ties. They underscored the mutual benefits derived from China-Hungary cooperation, advocating for deeper collaboration in manufacturing and urging improvements in Hungary’s business environment. Panellists further elucidated the economic alignment between China and Hungary, stressing the importance of joint initiatives across various sectors, including infrastructure, manufacturing, green energy, education, and tourism.
In addition to discussing opportunities, participants also addressed an array of challenges faced, including workforce efficiency, skilled labour shortages, and negative perceptions of Hungary in Chinese media and academia. Various suggestions were offered to overcome these challenges, encompassing improving Hungary’s business environment, increasing economic exchange, promoting mutual understanding through cultural initiatives, and navigating pressures from other international actors.
The conversation also explored the concept of connectivity, underlining its historical significance for Hungary and its current foreign policy strategy. Examples of Chinese investment and cooperation in infrastructure, technology, and energy sectors were highlighted, emphasizing the transformative potential of such initiatives. Participants stressed the importance of cultural exchange and understanding in fostering stronger China-Hungary relations, proposing dialogue and cooperation in culture and civilization as crucial components of the Belt and Road Initiative.
In summary, the roundtable discussion provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics of the China-Hungary relationship, balancing opportunities with challenges, and emphasizing the importance of both economic cooperation and cultural exchange for regional and global development.