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Hungary PM makes surprise China visit, meets Xi

Orban’s China visit follows his visits to Russia and Ukraine last week to discuss the prospects for a peaceful settlement in the conflict…reports Asian Lite News

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban paid a surprise “peace visit” to Beijing and met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing.

“China is a key power in creating the conditions for peace in the Russia-Ukraine war,” Orban posted on the social media platform X after his meeting with the Chinese President on Monday

“This is why I came to meet with President Xi in Beijing, just two months after his official visit to Budapest,” said the leader of Hungary, which assumed the six-month rotating presidency of the 27-member European Union council earlier this month.

In a video he posted from a Beijing airport tarmac on Monday on X, Orban hailed China as the only world power “clearly committed to peace”. He also posted a photograph and captioned it “Peace mission 3.0”.

Orban’s China visit follows his visits to Russia and Ukraine last week to discuss the prospects for a peaceful settlement in the conflict between the two countries that began in February 2022.

US daily The Washington Post noted that even as Xi embraced Orban in China’s capital city, Russian missiles hit Kyiv, Dnipro and other Ukrainian cities on Monday -killing at least 31 people, including two at a children’s hospital in Kyiv.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov was cited by TASS news agency that Orban has displayed his “political will for dialogue.”

“We take it very, very positively. We believe it can be very useful,” the Kremlin official was cited as saying.

Orban visited Kiev and Moscow on July 2 and 5 and he proposed first to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky and then to Russian leader Vladimir Putin to consider the prospect of a ceasefire and preparations for peace talks, Russian state media reported.

Addressing a press conference later Putin said that Russia was not in favour of a ceasefire, as Kiev could use this to its advantage. Instead, he advocated for a complete end to the conflict in Ukraine, TASS reported.

The White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Orban’s visit “will not advance the cause of peace and is counterproductive to promoting Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.”

Responding to a question during a briefing press briefing on July 8 US State department spokesperson Matthew Miller said the US found the visits to Keiv and Moscow by Orban as “concerning”

“Look, before he traveled to Russia, you did see the Hungarian prime minister travel to Ukraine. We thought that was an important thing for him to do. We thought that was a productive step. And we would welcome, of course, actual diplomacy with Russia to make it clear to Russia that they need to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, that they need to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity, but that is not at all what this visit appears to have been,” Miller said.

As per a report in the Al Jazeera, the Hungarian prime minister broadly opposes Western military aid to Ukraine and has blocked, delayed or watered down EU efforts to assist Kyiv and impose sanctions on Moscow over its invasion.

Orban is next headed to Washington, DC, to attend a summit of NATO leaders, which will discuss ways to assure Ukraine of the alliance’s continued support. (ANI)

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Hungary’s Orbn to take EU reins as tensions build

Orbn has vocally opposed and threatened to block Ukraine’s candidacy. His government has also held up EU efforts to supply Ukraine with badly needed funding…reports Asian Lite News

When Hungary takes over the helm of the European Union on July 1, many politicians in Brussels will have the same thing on their minds: whether populist Prime Minister Viktor Orbn will use the role to further his reputation as the bloc’s main spoiler.

Orbn in recent years has seemed to relish opportunities to block, water down or delay key EU decisions, routinely going against the grain of most other leaders on issues like the war in Ukraine, relations with Russia and China, and efforts to defend democracy and the rule of law.

His public opposition to EU policies and stances has long frustrated his partners in the bloc and pushed him to the margins of the continent’s mainstream. Hungary’s motto for its presidency Make Europe Great Again raised eyebrows for its resemblance to the famous tagline of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The EU presidency rotates among its member countries, and while the post holds little real power, it does allow countries to put their priorities high on Europe’s agenda.

Now, as Hungary resides over the 27-nation bloc for the coming six months, it will likely keep up its anti-EU rhetoric, said Dorka Takcsy, a research fellow at the Centre for Euro-Atlantic Integration and Democracy.

But the timeline of its presidency beginning with a lengthy summer break and a transitional period of forming a new European Parliament and executive commission will give Budapest few opportunities to derail the bloc’s priorities significantly, she said.

“These six months are altogether not that long, which means that … Hungary cannot do potentially much harm, even according to the critics,” Takcsy said.

As Hungary’s takeover approached, leaders in Brussels rushed to push through important policy decisions while Belgium was still at the helm. On Tuesday, for example, the EU launched membership talks with candidate countries Ukraine and Moldova.

Orbn has vocally opposed and threatened to block Ukraine’s candidacy. His government has also held up EU efforts to supply Ukraine with badly needed funding.

Yet with Ukraine’s accession process already initiated, Takcsy said, the most Hungary can do now under its presidency is delay further steps toward its EU membership, a process that in any scenario is likely to take many years.

All the meaningful steps from the European side regarding Ukraine were already done,” she said. (A Hungarian) delay, according to most European leaders, is already calculated and being taken into consideration as if it’s something which is most likely going to happen.

Orbn has long been accused of dismantling democratic institutions and violating the EU’s standards on the rule of law, leading the bloc’s legislature in May to call for the presidency to be taken out of Hungary’s hands entirely.

In a resolution, the EU parliament argued that democratic deficiencies raised questions of how Hungary will be able to credibly fulfill this task in 2024. Two years ago, the European Commission froze billions of euros in funds to Budapest over concerns about democratic backsliding by the government.

But some Hungarian officials have stressed that they plan to act constructively during their presidency. Last week, Hungarian minister for EU affairs Jnos Bka told reporters that we will be honest brokers, working loyally with all Member States and institutions.

Carrying out the functions of the presidency is our obligation, but we see it primarily as an opportunity,” Bka said. At the beginning of the new institutional cycle, we can initiate a debate and set the agenda on issues that are important to us.

Among the issues that Hungary has prioritised in its seven-point program is the enlargement of the EU in the Western Balkans for countries like Serbia, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Albania through a merit-based procedure.

Budapest has also vowed to strengthen the EU’s external borders and step up against illegal immigration, and to address demographic challenges that involve an aging population in Europe two priorities that reflect Orbn’s image as a staunch opponent of immigration and defender of family values.

But after years of campaigns portraying the EU as forcing unwanted policies on Hungary Orbn has repeatedly compared membership in the bloc to more than four decades of Soviet occupation of his country he may find it difficult to restore goodwill among his EU partners.

ALSO READ-Tamas Sulyok Elected as Hungary’s New President

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Tamas Sulyok Elected as Hungary’s New President

Sulyok’s predecessor Katalin Novak stepped down on February 10 following a child abuse pardon scandal…reports Asian Lite News

Hungarian lawmakers have elected Tamas Sulyok, head of the Constitutional Court, as the country’s new President.

Out of the 199 lawmakers, 146 participated in the voting on Monday, with 134 votes in favour, five against and seven invalid, Xinhua news agency reported.

Most opposition lawmakers did not participate in the vote.

“As a jurist, and in my role as the President of the Republic, my foremost commitment is to serve the public good and to embody the nation’s unity, all the while upholding the fundamental values of the law,” Sulyok said last Thursday upon his nomination.

Sulyok’s predecessor Katalin Novak stepped down on February 10 following a child abuse pardon scandal.

Sulyok has been elected for a mandate of five years and can be re-elected for one more term according to the fundamental law. His inaugural ceremony will take place on March 5.

Following his election, Sulyok said that he wanted to be a “president of trust.”

“For me, all power can only be interpreted within the framework of the law. The law carries values, its central function is the fair complementation of competing values,” he added.

Born on March 24, 1956 in Kiskunfelegyhaza in southern Hungary, Sulyok boasts a distinguished career in both law and academia. After graduating from Jozsef Attila University in Szeged in 1980, he furthered his legal expertise with a European law qualification in 2004 and a PhD in 2013.

Sulyok’s professional journey encompassed roles as a judicial clerk, legal adviser, lawyer, and honorary consul of Austria in Szeged. He has served as a guest lecturer in constitutional law at the University of Szeged since 2005.

He has assumed the role of deputy president of the Constitutional Court since 2015 while he was elected president of the Constitutional Court in 2016.

On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban justified Sulyok’s nomination as presidential candidate, highlighting his extensive qualifications such as “experience, proficiency in constitutional and legal matters, knowledge of international law, maneuvering in the international arena, understanding of the nature of political institutions, and a career that also confers professional authority.”

ALSO READ-Hungarian Parliament Approves Sweden’s NATO Accession

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Hungarian Parliament Approves Sweden’s NATO Accession

Calling it “a historic day”, Kristersson wrote on social media platform X that Sweden stands ready to shoulder its responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security…reports Asian Lite News

 Hungary’s lawmakers have approved a bill on Sweden’s bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Out of the 199 members of parliament (MP), 194 participated in the voting on Monday, with 188 votes in favour and six against.

The Hungarian Parliament voted on the bill on the first day of the spring session on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.

“The Swedish-Hungarian military cooperation and Sweden’s NATO accession strengthen Hungary’s security,” Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban said before the agenda of the Parliament.

Elod Novak of the Opposition party Our Homeland was one of the six MPs who voted against it. “Let’s veto Sweden’s NATO accession,” he said before the vote, urging the MPs to “veto the path that leads to World War III”.

With Monday’s ratification, Hungary became the last of the 31 NATO member countries that approved Sweden’s bid to join the military alliance, following the green light from the Turkish Parliament on January 23.

Sweden will officially become the 32nd member of the alliance at its next summit in Washington DC in July.

The bill still needs to be signed by the newly elected President of Hungary Tamas Sulyok to become law.

The Hungarian Parliament’s ratification was welcomed by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.

Calling it “a historic day”, Kristersson wrote on social media platform X that Sweden stands ready to shoulder its responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security.

Sweden and Finland applied to join NATO after the Ukrainian crisis escalated in February 2022. Their accession required the unanimous approval of all members of NATO.

Hungary’s Parliament approved Finland’s NATO bid in March last year but delayed Sweden’s accession due to debates within the parliamentary group of the ruling Fidesz party regarding Sweden’s criticisms about the rule of law in Hungary.

However, this dispute was settled at a meeting between Orban and Kristersson in Budapest last Friday. The two sides announced an agreement for Hungary to purchase four new Gripen fighter jets from Sweden.

ALSO READ-Hungary Faces Economic and Political Challenges, Orban Addresses EU Relations

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Hungary Faces Economic and Political Challenges, Orban Addresses EU Relations

The Hungarian leader also spoke about Hungary’s economic and political challenges, including maintaining growth, combating inflation, and the complexities of EU relations…reports Asian Lite News

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said President Katalin Novak’s resignation was “correct” in his state of the nation speech here.

“The resignation was correct; it strengthens us. I thank the President and the Minister of Justice on behalf of all of us, with a heavy heart,” the Prime Minister said on Saturday, one week after the resignations of Novak and former Minister of Justice Judit Varga.

Novak and Varga resigned following a child abuse pardon scandal that sparked national outrage and led to a mass demonstration of tens of thousands of people on Friday night, Xinhua news agency reported.

Noting that the President’s departure is “a great loss for Hungary,” Orban said: “The overwhelming majority of Hungarians rejected her decision for clemency. The disturbed balance can only be restored with the resignation of the President and the election of a new one.”

Orban added the Hungarian child protection system must be strengthened.

“We need to comb through and supplement our laws aimed at protecting our children, from the Constitution to ministerial decrees,” he said, calling for a new child protection legislative package to “be submitted to the National Assembly”.

The Hungarian leader also spoke about Hungary’s economic and political challenges, including maintaining growth, combating inflation, and the complexities of EU relations.

Hungary has emerged from a very difficult 2023 “by a very narrow margin” but the nation finds little reason for dissatisfaction with the results, Orban said.

Meanwhile, he criticised some European Union policies and advocated for a sovereignty approach to reclaim Europe’s autonomy.

He added the current crisis facing Europe will not be resolved by the “bureaucrats in Brussels,” adding that a resurgence of a new right-wing movement across Europe, with Hungary playing a part, holds the potential to bring “real change”.

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READ MORE: Hungary’s Festive Charm and Snowy Splendours Await

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Cameron, Hungarian FM visit Lebanese officials

After the meeting, Cameron emphasized “the priority of a ceasefire in Gaza as a prelude for moving on to the next stages of the solution.”..reports Asian Lite News

Lebanon has reiterated its commitment to “implementing international resolutions to the letter, especially Resolution 1701.”

Caretaker Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib on Thursday said: “Lebanon is ready to begin indirect negotiations with Israel regarding the land borders, but no agreement can be signed before the election of a president. In the meantime, we can negotiate indirectly to reach an agreement similar to the maritime demarcation agreement that was achieved.”

He explained: “There is ongoing dialogue between us and Hezbollah, and the party has always acknowledged the state’s responsibility for negotiating the southern land border.

“Lebanon desires the delineation of the land borders, the Israeli withdrawal from the Shebaa Farms and Kfarchouba, and the cessation of violations; there are no disagreements among the Lebanese in this regard. We would like to delineate the borders, and this is what we have asked of everyone.”

British Foreign Minister David Cameron and Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto arrived in Lebanon and held separate talks with Lebanese officials to urge calm, encourage the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and help spare Lebanon from getting involved in a war with Israel.

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati informed Cameron of “Lebanon’s desire for continued cooperation between the army and UNIFIL,” referring to the UN peacekeeping force in the country.

Mikati’s media office said the two discussed “the establishment of calm in southern Lebanon and the requisite political and diplomatic solution. They also discussed the role of the army, avenues to support it and strengthen its capabilities, and ways to enhance cooperation between it and UNIFIL, as well as the means to implement Resolution 1701.”

After the meeting, Cameron emphasized “the priority of a ceasefire in Gaza as a prelude for moving on to the next stages of the solution.”

Cameron also met with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who told him that “Israel is accused of targeting civilians and residential neighborhoods in the southern border villages and towns, bypassing the area of Resolution 1701 and the rules of engagement, and that Lebanon is adhering to and awaiting the implementation of this resolution since its issuance in its entirety.”

During a meeting with army commander Gen. Joseph Aoun, Cameron expressed “his country’s support for the army under the exceptional circumstances that Lebanon is going through,” according to the Army Command’s Orientation Office.

Meanwhile, Szijjarto said after an extensive meeting with his Lebanese counterpart Bou Habib: “We are concerned about the escalation of armed conflict in the Middle East, and the international community should do everything in its power to stop its deterioration because we know that if one country is involved in this armed conflict, it means we might be facing a regional war or even a war beyond the region’s borders.”

Bou Habib gave a more detailed explanation of Lebanon’s position, saying: “We rejected an Israeli proposal that requires Hezbollah to withdraw north so that Israel can return the settlers to their homes. We do not support half-measures in southern Lebanon. We want a complete solution that focuses on clarifying the borders between us, which were demarcated in 1923 and reaffirmed in the armistice agreement. We want to recover the territories of the Shebaa Farms and Kfarchouba Hills.”

A diplomatic source in contact with UNIFIL forces told Arab News that “Resolution 1701 is a comprehensive one. It does not only stipulate the cessation of hostilities. It contains provisions that should have been implemented in order to achieve a state of permanent stability. However, this was never done by either the Lebanese or the Israeli side. For years, the response was limited to addressing the violations perpetrated by both sides.”

On the other hand, the source talked about “the political instability that Israel faced. UNIFIL achieved what was achievable in south Lebanon under these circumstances, knowing that the cost of its presence amounts to half a billion dollars. However, it is the Lebanese government’s responsibility to implement the decisions it took and agreed to.

“Everyone knows that Hezbollah is part of the south and this is its land. Israel, by talking about the necessity of Hezbollah withdrawing from the border area, aims to provoke. This should not be discussed, as there is no need for a buffer zone,” the source added, pointing out that “UNIFIL was unable to enter and search the houses for weapons, as this requires evidence and search warrants.”

The source also refused to accuse anyone of obstructing the implementation of the resolution, as “both parties are in the wrong and pointing fingers is useless currently. The focus should be on the implementation of the international resolution’s provisions.

“Lebanon has an opportunity that should not be missed today. Does it want to be involved in regional conflicts despite its big potential?”

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Hungary’s Festive Charm and Snowy Splendours Await

The cold season is the best time to visit Thailand due to the onset of soothing temperature that creates a pleasant atmosphere to explore the country and indulge in a wide array of activities Venture into the enchanting realms of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in the northern regions, where historical wonders intertwine with the tranquillity of the Thai countryside…reports Asian Lite News

This festive season, escape the commonplace winter retreats and welcome fresh adventures. With a blend of diverse activities and attractions, these destinations will brighten up your vacation, making it a memorable adventure:

Hungary

Hungary offers a magical holiday experience with its snowy landscapes and festive activities. The country boasts Europe’s largest outdoor skating rink, the City Park Ice Rink in Budapest, as well as charming options near Vajdahunyad Castle and Lake Velence. Lake Balaton’s frozen beauty is a must-see. Hungary is renowned for its opera and classical theatres, with the Budapest Nutcracker Ballet being a Christmas season highlight. Throughout December, the country sparkles with Christmas lights, especially along Budapest’s Andrássy út, adorned with the most spectacular displays and St. Stephen’s Basilica hosts a lively Christmas market with a laser show in its square during this time. This festive charm extends to country towns and villages, each adorned with delightful decorations and opportunities to indulge in fine wine and warm seasonal cuisines. The bobsleigh track in Visegrád, located near Budapest, is open all year round, while the snowy tracks of the Mátra Mountains, the highest point of the country, are favourite sledging spots. A breathtaking sight for tourists is the waterfalls in the Bükk Mountains which transform into ice curtains creating an enchanting ambience identical to the world of Narnia.

Japan

Japan receives some of the highest amounts of snow in the world crafting ideal terrains for skiing and snowboarding. The country has a variety of ski resorts ranging from the largest and most developed ski resort, Niseko in Hokkaido, to Tohoku’s family-friendly resorts with beginner and intermediate terrain and a few others scattered in Niigata, Nagano and Gunma of central Honshu region. A day trip to see the snow monkeys in Yudanaka Onsenmakes a great rest day after skiing and snowboarding in the Japan Alps also known as the roof of Japan Theski resorts of Hakuba in the Northern Alps at Nagano are popular for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics and have 10 resorts combined, providing a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. For those looking for a more relaxed snow vacation head to the family-friendly Furano resort, east of Sapporo, where visitors also enjoy snowmobiling, ice fishing and several other activities with children.

Thailand

The cold season is the best time to visit Thailand due to the onset of soothing temperature that creates a pleasant atmosphere to explore the country and indulge in a wide array of activities Venture into the enchanting realms of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in the northern regions, where historical wonders intertwine with the tranquillity of the Thai countryside. As daylight fades, immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of night markets and savour a delectable feast. For those yearning for sun-kissed shores and aquatic escapades, the southern gems of Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Samui beckon with their pristine beaches and a plethora of water sports. To the west, the charming Hua Hin district stands as a beacon of luxury, boasting resorts that pamper guests with opulent amenities, ensuring a revitalising escape. Gifted with diverse terrain, Thailand is brimmed with hidden gems that constantly entice both new and seasoned travellers, such as the Mae Hong Son province which is dotted with majestic mountains and grasslands and reveals popular attractions including Ban Rak Thai, Thailand’s most picturesque village whose beauty is further enhanced in the fog of winter.

St. Moritz

Switzerland’s luxury alpine resort town, St. Moritz is a paradise for snow sports enthusiasts and those seeking a luxurious staycation. In addition to unskippable skiing adventures, bobsleighing, ice hockey, snow polo and horse racing are popular activities to experience here.  The bobsleigh track located in the Engadin Valley—the St. Moritz-Celerina Olympia bob run is the world’s oldest and the only natural ice bob run still in operation. It offers a 75-second thrilling adventure ride as you experience the adrenaline rush of a lifetime, zooming along at speeds up to 130kmph.In addition to icy adventures, the region is known for legendary hotels like Badrutt Palace, Grand Hotel Des Bains Kempinski, Suvretta House and the recently unveiled historic Hotel Grace LaMargna. The hotel perched above St. Moritz Railway Station, Hotel Grace LaMargnaisan excellent place for admirers of history and architecture and has world-class amenities to meet the requirements of modern travellers. The town also consists of premier Michelin restaurants, luxurious spas and panoramic viewpoints ensuring a wholesome and unforgettable stay.

Qatar

Qatar rarely comes to mind when discussing year-end vacations; despite this, the country has a diversity of attractions and special themed seasonal offerings that combine its cultural influence and the novelty of modernised amenities to craft a unique holiday experience. Discover the rich heritage at places like Katara Cultural Village, North Sedra Farm, and Mia Park. Luxuriate in Pearl Island, Lusail Boulevard, West Bay, and Al Maha Island for a lavish stay. For those seeking adventure, Khor Al Udaid offers a mesmerising meeting point of desert and water, while the Cave of Wonders promises a unique experience. Unwind at Souq Waqif, Qanat Quarter, and Mina District, ideal for shopping, dining, and relaxing at cafés. For an incredible family-friendly adventure, the Lusail Winter Wonderland is a favourite spot. Located in the heart of Qatar’s entertainment hub – Al Maha Island, the park has over 50 amusement rides and adventures including Pony Adventure, Air Balloon and Circus Swing. The park is also facilitated with live entertainment and kiosks serving premium food and beverages along with carnival games, and an ice rink.

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Hungary, Turkey Boost Ties

Earlier on Monday, Hungarian President Katalin Novak received Erdogan, and later in the day, they also held talks….reports Asian Lite News

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed an agreement here elevating the bilateral ties to “priority strategic” level.

Orban on Monday told a joint press conference following the signing of the agreement that “in the language of diplomacy, this expresses the strongest possible friendly, brotherly and political cooperation”.

Speaking of bilateral economic ties, Orban said that the volume of trade in goods has doubled over the past 10 years, with 500 Turkish companies operating in Hungary and 100 Hungarian companies in Turkey, Xinhua news agency reported.

He added that Turkish investments in Hungary are continuously increasing both in number and value, extending to new areas, such as railway development and defence industry agreements.

Orban emphasised the importance of Turkey in Hungary’s security, especially in managing migration.

“Turkish-Hungarian relations are friendly, with long-standing roots, and both sides have the intention to expand them,” Erdogan said.

Earlier on Monday, Hungarian President Katalin Novak received Erdogan, and later in the day, they also held talks.

Seventeen agreements covering various areas were signed during the Turkish President’s visit. Beyond commerce, energy security took the forefront, with mutual agreements in natural gas transit and procurement. Turkey will become a source for Hungary’s natural gas purchases next year.

Erdogan concluded the visit by attending the opening concert of the joint Hungarian-Turkish cultural season.

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Hungary, Turkey Elevate Ties to ‘Priority Strategic’ Level with New Agreement

Hungarian President Katalin Novak received Erdogan, and later in the day, they also held talks...reports Asian Lite News

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed an agreement here elevating the bilateral ties to “priority strategic” level.

Orban on Monday told a joint press conference following the signing of the agreement that “in the language of diplomacy, this expresses the strongest possible friendly, brotherly and political cooperation”.

Speaking of bilateral economic ties, Orban said that the volume of trade in goods has doubled over the past 10 years, with 500 Turkish companies operating in Hungary and 100 Hungarian companies in Turkey, Xinhua news agency reported.

He added that Turkish investments in Hungary are continuously increasing both in number and value, extending to new areas, such as railway development and defence industry agreements.

Orban emphasised the importance of Turkey in Hungary’s security, especially in managing migration.

“Turkish-Hungarian relations are friendly, with long-standing roots, and both sides have the intention to expand them,” Erdogan said.

Earlier on Monday, Hungarian President Katalin Novak received Erdogan, and later in the day, they also held talks.

Seventeen agreements covering various areas were signed during the Turkish President’s visit. Beyond commerce, energy security took the forefront, with mutual agreements in natural gas transit and procurement. Turkey will become a source for Hungary’s natural gas purchases next year.

Erdogan concluded the visit by attending the opening concert of the joint Hungarian-Turkish cultural season.

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Hungary Blocks €50 Billion EU Funding to Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrives for the meeting of European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels, Belgium, March 24, 2022. (European Union/Handout via Xinhua/IANS)

Hungary has long opposed membership for Ukraine but did not veto that move…reports Asian Lite News

The Hungarian government has blocked 50 billion euros ($55 billion) in European Union (EU) funding for Ukraine hours after agreement was reached on starting membership talks.

In a post on X early Friday morning, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said: “Summary of the nightshift: veto for the extra money to Ukraine,veto for the MFF review. We will come back to the issue next year in the EUCO after proper preparation.”

Orban’s announcement came shortly after the EU leaders decided to open membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova and to grant candidate status to Georgia, the BBC reported.

Hungary has long opposed membership for Ukraine but did not veto that move.

Orban left the negotiating room here momentarily in what officials described as a pre-agreed and constructive manner, while the other 26 leaders went ahead with the vote.

Commenting on Orban’s opposition to the aid, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said: “We still have some time, Ukraine is not out of money in the next few weeks.”

“We agreed with the 26 countries. Viktor Orban, Hungary, were not yet able to do that. I am fairly confident we can get a deal early next year. We are thinking of late January,” the BBC quoted Rutte as saying.

The bloc’s leaders said that talks on aid for Ukraine would resume early next year.

Ukraine is critically dependant on EU and US funding as it continues to fight occupying Russian forces.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the EU decision on membership talks as “a victory” for his country and “Europe”.

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