Peter Magyar, Hungary’s incoming prime minister, plans visits to Austria and Poland to rebuild alliances and counter previous government policies.
Magyar’s Planned Diplomatic Offensive
Peter Magyar discussed plans with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk for a visit to Poland on or before May 20th, following the formation of his new government. He also intends to visit Austria soon after.
Magyar emphasized the importance of strengthening relations with Austria, citing historical, cultural, and economic ties, despite a perceived deterioration under Viktor Orbán’s leadership.
Rebuilding the Visegrád Group
Magyar aims to rebuild friendships with Poland and revitalize cooperation within the Visegrád Group (Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary). He suggested potential collaboration with Austria and the “Slavkov Group” (Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Austria).
Cooperation Discussions with Austria
According to Politico, Magyar and Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker discussed potential cooperation in February, anticipating a possible defeat for Viktor Orbán. Discussions included a visit to Vienna and improving conditions for Austrian businesses in Hungary.
Challenges to Alliance Building
Despite efforts to forge stronger alliances, key differences remain among Central European countries. While Hungary under Magyar is unlikely to block EU aid to Ukraine as Orbán did, it aligns with the Czech Republic and Slovakia in not supporting the EU’s €90 billion loan package for Kyiv.
Disagreements also exist regarding Ukraine’s potential EU membership.
Brussels Understanding and Regional Power
Stefano Bottoni, a professor specializing in Eastern Europe, noted that Magyar is the first Hungarian prime minister to fully understand the workings of the EU mechanism. He believes that building alliances is crucial for Hungary to gain influence in Brussels and counterbalance larger nations like France and Germany.
Fico’s Concerns Regarding Russian Energy
Peter Magyar spoke with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who inquired about Budapest’s position on Russian gas and oil. Magyar, emphasizing his pre-premiership status, offered only general responses.
Benes Decrees as a Sticking Point with Slovakia
Fico stated that Magyar prioritized addressing the Benes Decrees in Slovak-Hungarian relations, a point of significant disagreement. Magyar reportedly seeks the repeal of a law criminalizing the questioning of the post-war legal order and guarantees against land confiscation for Hungarians in Slovakia.
Historical Context of the Benes Decrees
The 1945 Benes Decrees allowed for the denationalization of Germans and Hungarians, including the confiscation of property. These decrees have been recently invoked in Slovakia, leading to state seizure of assets like forests and land, and a law criminalizing their questioning.
Future Meetings Planned
Fico proposed further discussions on topics beyond energy security be held in person, suggesting a working meeting during an upcoming EU summit in Brussels before official visits are arranged.
