China's President Xi Jinping Praises Hungary's Independent Foreign Policy

Chinese President Xi Jinping Praises Hungary's Independent Foreign Policy, Straining EU Relations

In a recent visit to Hungary, Chinese President Xi Jinping commended Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's independent foreign policy and defiance of great power politics. Xi called for deeper cooperation between China and central European nations, underscoring Hungary's role in this relationship. This move comes amid existing tensions as China faces criticism from the EU over concerns about its priorities and growing relationship with Russia. Xi's visits to Hungary and Serbia, both Russia-friendly European countries, may further exacerbate these concerns. Orbán's previous meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing has added to the existing geopolitical complexities.

Key Takeaways

• Xi Jinping praises Hungary's independent foreign policy and "defying" of great power politics
• China views Hungary as a close partner in Europe, with potential for increased investment
• Xi's comments unlikely to alleviate European concerns about China's priorities and relationship with Russia
• Orbán met with Putin in Beijing during Belt and Road forum, the only European leader in attendance
• Xi criticizes Nato over 1999 bombing of Chinese embassy in Belgrade during Serbia visit

Analysis

President Xi Jinping's endorsement of Hungary's independent foreign policy and deeper cooperation sought with central European nations could escalate tensions with the EU. This development may impact European countries wary of China's growing influence, such as Germany, and could further strain EU-China relations. The visit to Hungary and Serbia may also strengthen China-Russia ties, worrying NATO and the US. In the long term, increased Chinese investment in Hungary might lead to greater economic dependence, potentially undermining Hungary's political independence. Xi's criticism of NATO may exacerbate existing tensions and geopolitical fault lines. Overall, this situation highlights the complexities of great power politics and the delicate balance of interests in Europe.

Did You Know?

• Belt and Road forum: This is a high-level meeting initiated by China's President Xi Jinping in 2017, aiming to enhance all-around connectivity through infrastructure development, fostering a new type of international relations featuring win-win cooperation. The forum is significant as it showcases China's ambitious global infrastructure development strategy and its goal to strengthen cooperation with other nations.
• Independent foreign policy: In this context, it refers to Hungary's approach to international relations, where it maintains its own stance and decisions without being heavily influenced by major powers. This allows Hungary to build and maintain relationships with countries like China and Russia, despite potential criticism or concerns from the EU.
• Great power politics: This term describes the strategies, actions, and tensions among major world powers, such as China, the United States, Russia, and the European Union. These great powers compete and cooperate in various aspects, including economics, politics, and military affairs, to secure their national interests and maintain their global influence.