Budapest: China appreciates Hungary's friendly policy toward China and stands ready to continue offering mutual support in safeguarding each other's legitimate rights and interests, visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here on Wednesday. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during his meeting with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Wang highlighted the traditional friendship between China and Hungary, emphasizing that under the strategic guidance of their leaders, the two countries have upheld mutual respect, equality, and win-win cooperation. This has led to the establishment of an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for the new era, serving as a model of a new type of international relations. Wang noted that Chinese enterprises investing and operating in Hungary have effectively boosted the country's economic development and improved livelihoods, bringing tangible benefits to the Hungarian people.
Wang stated that the friendship and cooperation between China and Hungary fully serve the fundamental interests of Hungary and its people, while also contributing to the sound development of China-EU relations. He stressed that China is a strategic partner that Hungary can rely on for national development and revitalization. Over the past year, China's economy has advanced amid pressure, leading innovation-led and high-quality development, and achieving expected growth targets.
With the commencement of China's 15th Five-Year Plan period, Wang expressed China's intent to further promote high-quality development and high-level opening-up, inviting Hungary and other countries to share new development opportunities. He urged both sides to utilize mechanisms like the China-Hungary Economic Joint Committee to expand cooperation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and new energy, supporting industry upgrades in both nations.
Wang encouraged Chinese enterprises to continue investing in Hungary and expressed confidence in Hungary's potential to improve its business environment and provide policy support. He also invited Hungarian friends to take advantage of China's visa-free policy to explore China and gain firsthand insight into its development.
Reflecting on the 50 years of China-EU diplomatic ties, Wang emphasized that cooperation outcomes have shown China to be a partner and opportunity rather than a rival or risk. He voiced hope that Hungary would continue to promote cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European countries and aid in developing China-EU relations.
Hungarian Minister Peter Szijjarto reaffirmed Hungary's commitment to its friendship and cooperation with China, despite changes in the international landscape. He noted that Chinese investment in Hungary has reached new heights, driving innovation, economic growth, and job creation. Szijjarto expressed pride in Hungary being the first European country to join the Belt and Road Initiative and highlighted the imminent operation of the Hungary-Serbia railway, expected to enhance regional connectivity.
Acknowledging China's vital role as a global player amid international transformation, Szijjarto stated Hungary's support for the Global Governance Initiative and willingness to strengthen communication with China within multilateral frameworks like the United Nations. He affirmed Hungary's commitment to promoting healthy EU-China relations.
The meeting also included discussions on the Ukraine crisis and other international and regional issues of mutual concern.