BUDAPEST – After Orbán’s Departure, Germany and Hungary Strengthen Bilateral Relations

BUDAPEST, September 14 /ATSH-DPA/ — Germany and Hungary aim to strengthen cooperation in energy, culture and defense, announced German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul today during a meeting with his Hungarian counterpart, Anita Orbán, in Budapest.

Wadephul said Germany and Hungary are trying to open a new chapter in relations between the two countries.

He is the first German foreign minister to visit Hungary in nearly seven years and is accompanied by a group of business representatives.

The two ministers announced that the German-Hungarian Forum, a mechanism for strengthening cooperation between the two countries, will hold a meeting in Berlin later this year.

Relations cooled during Orbán’s rule

Relations between Berlin and Budapest had deteriorated during the years of Viktor Orbán’s rule, who maintained a stance closer to Moscow and opposed several European Union measures against Russia after the invasion of Ukraine.

In the April elections, Péter Magyar and his new conservative government removed Orbán from power, ending his 16 years at the head of government.

Foreign Minister Anita Orbán, who is not related to Viktor Orbán, said the situation has changed significantly.

“There is dialogue and talks again,” she said, stressing that the new Hungarian government is taking a more critical approach toward Russia.

Broader cooperation

Germany and Hungary are considering the possibility of declaring 2028 the German-Hungarian Cultural Year, with the aim of increasing cultural and social exchanges.

The two countries also aim to expand economic cooperation beyond the automotive industry, particularly in electronics and the defense industry.

Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar is expected to visit Berlin on November 9 and 10, where he will hold talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Before the visit, Wadephul also welcomed Hungary’s decision to expel 10 Russian diplomats, calling it a clear signal to Moscow.

He said Hungary’s support for EU sanctions against Russia shows that both countries want to protect peace and security in Europe.