Budapest: Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, expressed optimism about a potential “new dimension” in Hungarian-American relations with the upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump. Speaking at a business forum organized by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Budapest, Szijjártó emphasized the possibility of a “golden age” in bilateral relations following a period he described as a “low point.”
According to About Hungary, Minister Szijjártó highlighted the impact of international sanctions policies, arguing that they have adversely affected the European economy more than they have Russia. He stressed that ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine would serve Europe’s best interests. Minister Szijjártó voiced his satisfaction with the election outcome, noting the victory of a “pro-peace candidate” and anticipating significant geopolitical shifts that could positively influence US relations with both the EU and Hungary.
He cautioned that the current European Union partners would need to
adapt to a “new reality,” warning that a prolonged conflict would exacerbate the challenges faced by Ukraine and the EU. Minister Szijjártó firmly stated that the conflict cannot be resolved through military means and described the remaining months of the Biden presidency as “extraordinarily dangerous.” He warned that pro-war advocates might attempt to obstruct peace efforts.
Furthermore, Minister Szijjártó confirmed that Hungary would not support any new EU sanctions targeting Russia’s energy sector. He also highlighted the presence of approximately 1,200 US-owned companies in Hungary, employing several hundred thousand people. Recent agreements with US-owned firms have resulted in investments worth several billion dollars in the country.
