19-2-2024 (BEIJING) China has extended its support to Hungary on public security matters, signaling a broadening of ties beyond trade and investment. This move comes at a time when NATO faces challenges in expanding its network in Europe. During a rare meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, China expressed its willingness to strengthen law enforcement and security collaboration, marking the 75th year of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong, during a visit to Budapest, conveyed China’s intent to enhance efforts in areas such as combating terrorism and addressing transnational crimes. Wang expressed hope that these initiatives would become a “new highlight of bilateral relations.” The proposed collaboration would also encompass security and law enforcement capacity building under President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at fostering global connectivity through trade and infrastructure links.
Wang’s discussions extended to a meeting with Hungarian Interior Minister Sandor Pinter, where they signed documents on law enforcement and security cooperation. While specific details were not disclosed, the emphasis on security ties indicates a significant shift in the nature of China-Hungary relations.
Hungary, traditionally a Russian ally, has sought to reduce its reliance on Western nations in recent years, resisting pressure to support NATO’s expansion in Europe. Notably, Hungary is the only NATO state that has not ratified Sweden’s application to join the security bloc.
China’s assurance on security matters aligns with Hungary’s evolving geopolitical stance and provides a diplomatic win for China within the European Union. As the EU evaluates its relationship with China amidst differences on human rights, trade imbalances, and Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Hungary’s growing alignment with Beijing challenges the EU’s united front.
Hungary’s divergence from EU positions critical of China, especially on human rights issues, underscores its receptiveness to Chinese investments. Despite warnings from the European Commission about security risks, Hungary hosts Huawei Technologies’ largest logistics and manufacturing base outside China. The telecom giant’s collaboration with Chinese AI firm Yitu Technology for smart city solutions further exemplifies Hungary’s openness to Chinese technology.
In the near future, Hungary is set to host the first European factory of Chinese carmaker BYD. China’s expanding influence in Hungary not only strengthens economic ties but also deepens security cooperation, adding a layer of complexity to the EU’s relationship with Beijing.
