China and Hungary agree to further strengthen ties

World
Europe

01:01

Chinese President Xi Jinping has vowed to further cooperate with Hungary while meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Shanghai on Monday.

Orban is currently in China to attend the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) which opened on November 5.

During the meeting, Xi mentioned that the comprehensive strategic partnership forged between China and Hungary last May has led to a wider space for the relationship's development.

He called for coordination between China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Hungary's "Eastern Opening" strategy, adding that a top-down planning for cooperation across the board needs to be made.

Xi also expressed his hope for more cooperative achievements to be made in fields like trade and investment, finance, agriculture and tourism, adding that China welcomes Hungary to further explore the Chinese market through the CIIE.

The Chinese president said both sides should plan well the activities to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties next year, and improve friendly exchanges.

China also expects Hungary to actively enhance the relationship between China and Europe, Xi stressed.

In response, Orban said the 70th anniversary serves as a very significant opportunity for both countries to gain better development under the new situation.

He said Hungary is willing to participate in the BRI and expand pragmatic cooperation with China.

Hungary is ready to play a bigger role in bringing China and Europe closer, Orban said.