Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on July 8, 2024, marking the latest stop in his self-styled ‘Peace Mission 3.0’. This surprise visit follows Orbán’s recent diplomatic efforts in Ukraine and Russia, where he proposed immediate ceasefire negotiations to end the ongoing conflict.During the meeting, Orbán emphasized China’s crucial role in creating conditions for peace in the Russia-Ukraine war. He stated, “China is a key power to create the conditions for peace,” and expressed gratitude for Xi’s peace initiative. The Hungarian leader also highlighted the importance of China urging peace in the world.Orbán’s diplomatic maneuvers have put him at odds with many EU partners and NATO allies. As Hungary assumed the EU’s rotating presidency on July 1, Orbán’s unconventional diplomacy has raised questions about the potential impact on EU policy towards the Ukraine conflict. His visits to Moscow and Kyiv, followed by this trip to Beijing, have been conducted without a mandate from the EU, according to some sources.The Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed the meeting between Orbán and Xi, stating they would discuss ‘mutual concerns’ without providing further details. China has maintained an ambiguous stance on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, calling for respect for territorial integrity while also acknowledging the ‘legitimate security concerns’ of all parties.Orbán’s visit comes ahead of NATO’s 75th anniversary summit, where Ukraine’s setbacks in the ongoing conflict are expected to dominate discussions. The Hungarian leader’s efforts to position himself as a potential mediator in the conflict continue to draw skepticism from Western allies about his motives and methods.
Key points
- Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing as part of his ‘Peace Mission 3.
- Orbán emphasized China’s crucial role in creating conditions for peace in the Russia-Ukraine war.
- The visit has drawn criticism from EU partners and NATO allies, as Hungary currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency.
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Contradictions👾While Orbán claims to be on a peace mission, some sources question his motives and suggest he may be strengthening ties with Russia.
👾There are differing accounts of the outcomes of Orbán’s meetings with Putin and Zelensky, with some sources not disclosing results.
