Hungary's Bridge to the East: A Beacon of Connectivity in a Divided World

May 13, 2024, 2:22 pm
ESM - European Stability Mechanism
ESM - European Stability Mechanism
FinTechInformationITManagementMediaNetworksResearchScienceServiceSocial
Location: Belgium, Brussels-Capital, Brussels
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 1958
Global Times
Global Times
InformationITMediaProductionPublicVoiceWebsite
Location: China, Beijing
Employees: 501-1000
Founded date: 1993
Cision
Cision
ContentContent DistributionFoodTechHealthTechIndustryMediaProductProviderPublicService
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 1954
In a world where divisions seem to grow deeper by the day, Hungary's strategy of connectivity shines as a beacon of hope and progress. The recent visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Hungary has not only strengthened bilateral relations but also highlighted Hungary's pivotal role in bridging the gap between East and West. Gladden Pappin, President of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs, emphasized the significance of this visit in an exclusive interview with the Global Times.

President Xi's visit to Hungary comes at a crucial time, amidst a shifting international landscape where normal links between the West and East are in need of restoration. Hungary's Eastern Opening in 2010 marked the beginning of a deepening relationship with China, recognizing the importance of connectivity in a world that is increasingly fragmented.

As President Xi engages in discussions with Hungarian leaders, the focus is on deepening ties with Hungary and improving relations with the EU. This emphasis on connectivity sets Hungary apart in today's divided world, where bloc formations often hinder progress and cooperation. Hungary's centuries-old experience at the crossroads of East and West has shaped its viewpoint, urging for peaceful global cooperation with a sense of urgency.

The benefits of Hungary-China and Europe-China relationships are mutual, with Hungary actively working to strengthen both partnerships. Chinese investments in Hungary, such as the establishment of a battery and electrical vehicle factory, not only bring capital and jobs to local communities but also drive economic growth to bridge the gap between Western and Central Europe.

Hungary's commitment to connectivity is evident in its opposition to bloc formations, advocating for strong connections with the rest of the world. By promoting mutually beneficial and strong relations with as many countries as possible, Hungary's approach stands out as a model for peaceful global cooperation.

As Hungary's cooperation with China continues to expand, the visit by President Xi serves as a catalyst for accelerating bilateral cooperation. While Hungary hopes for an improvement in Europe's approach to China, it remains steadfast in promoting strong ties between the two sides. In a world where divisions threaten to overshadow unity, Hungary's bridge to the East stands as a symbol of hope and progress in an increasingly divided world.