- Chinese Pres. Xi Jinping ended his three-day visit to Hungary on Friday, concluding his five-day European tour that included stops in France and Serbia. ABC News
- During the visit, Xi and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán held discussions on increasing ties between their respective countries. On Thursday, the two nations signed several strategic and economic partnership agreements. Associated Press (LR: 3 CP: 5)
- Although no major investments were announced, officials signed 18 agreements and memoranda of understanding. In December, Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD announced it will open its first European EV production factory in south Hungary. NBC (LR: 2 CP: 4)
- Beijing has already invested billions in Hungary, viewing it as a gateway to the European Union. It's also financing a $2.1B high-speed rail project linking Budapest with Belgrade, Serbia. This is part of Xi’s "Belt and Road Initiative," which looks to build infrastructure and energy networks connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. Voice of America
- This makes Hungary one of China’s closest allies in Europe, and the two sides said this week’s meetings mark a “new era” that would “continuously enhance strategic and political mutual trust.” South China Morning Post
- Under its nationalist leader, Orbán, Hungary has often diverged from the European mainstream, particularly regarding relations with China and Russia. Unlike other EU leaders, Orbán has backed China’s peace plan for Russia and Ukraine. Guardian (LR: 2 CP: 5)
Pro-establishment narrative:
- Xi and the Chinese Communist Party are trying to buy their way into the EU, and they're using Orbán as their bridge. China is looking to reinforce its growing influence on Europe, and Budapest has no problem obliging, even if it means undermining democratic values and Western prosperity.
ABC NEWS
Establishment-critical narrative:
- As Western hegemony fades, Hungary is engaging in talks to promote peace and prosperity with all countries. Orbán is committed to ending deadly conflicts that are destroying Europe, and he understands that the global economy isn’t the same as it was 20 years ago. Hungary is looking out for its own economic interests in a way that benefits the entire world.
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