Hungary: A European Country with Close Relations to China
Despite being a member of the European Union, Hungary maintains extremely close ties with China and steadfastly supports China even in the face of pressure from Europe and the United States.
The country has adopted Chinese as a second language and perceives a common ancestral connection with China.
Today, let's discuss this European country - Hungary.
Early Foundations of Relations
The relationship between China and Hungary can be traced back to the early days of the People's Republic of China.
At that time, China had just been established and was economically weak, with most Western countries either refusing to recognize it or adopting a wait-and-see approach.
Hungary was one of the earliest countries to recognize the new China, formally establishing diplomatic relations on October 3, 1949, just three days after the founding of the People's Republic of China.
Given the international context at the time, this was undoubtedly a gesture of friendship in a difficult situation.
Shared Historical Experiences
During this time, Hungary established a communist-led People's Republic and implemented socialist policies following the Soviet model.
After World War II, Hungary came under political and military control of the Soviet Union.
Due to Soviet oppression, Hungary experienced an uprising in 1956 against Soviet control and for political reforms.
Despite China being an ally of the Soviet Union, it expressed sympathy for the Hungarian people and dissatisfaction with the Soviet intervention.
This event led to cracks in Sino-Soviet relations, ultimately resulting in the Sino-Soviet split of the 1960s.
Following the Hungarian uprising, China began to formulate a more independent foreign policy, no longer entirely dependent on the Soviet Union.
Its attitude towards Eastern European countries also became more flexible.
Against this backdrop, Hungary firmly supports China on various international issues.
In 2019, when the United States imposed sanctions on Huawei, Hungary continued to use Huawei's 5G technology, and its Foreign Minister openly criticized the U.S.'s double standards.
As a member of the European Union and NATO, Hungary maintains a clear stance on its approach to China.
In 2021, when the EU took unfriendly measures against China over the Hong Kong national security law, Hungary vetoed these proposals three times.
The unanimity of all EU members is required in foreign policy matters, and Hungary's opposition prevented these decisions from being implemented.
When the EU attempted to impose sanctions on China over human rights issues in Xinjiang, Hungary again voted against it, leading to the failure of the sanctions proposal.
Prime Minister Orban of Hungary stated, "Even if we vote 100 times, the result won't change," indicating the immense pressure Hungary faces in supporting China.
Hungarians have always believed in a common ancestry with China.
Though not directly related, the English name for Hungary, "Hungary," sounds similar to "Huns," an ancient nomadic group.
While there's no direct linguistic connection, historically, the Huns were a powerful nomadic group whose activities spanned from East Asia to Europe.
Scholars speculate that the Huns may have reached the region of present-day Hungary during their westward migration, hence the cultural similarities and the reference to them as "European kin."
The core of Sino-Hungarian relations lies in economic cooperation.
Under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, the two countries have signed numerous cooperation agreements covering infrastructure, industry, research, finance, and more.
For example, the Hungary-Serbia railway project not only shortened travel time between Hungary and Serbia but also promoted economic development in both areas, increased goods circulation and personnel exchanges, and boosted local employment rates.
This reciprocal cooperation in times of need further deepens the friendship between the two countries.
In conclusion, the relationship between Hungary and China is based on historical ties and substantial economic cooperation, demonstrating a unique and profound friendship.
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