Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker and Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar met in Vienna on Thursday to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation and resetting relations between their countries. This marks Magyar’s second official foreign visit since assuming office, highlighting his commitment to fostering partnerships. The Hungarian delegation included key ministers overseeing foreign affairs, economy, transport, and environmental policy, underscoring the broad scope of discussions aimed at deepening ties.
At a joint press conference, Magyar emphasized Hungary’s dedication to becoming a more constructive partner within the European Union while safeguarding its national interests. He highlighted the significance of collaboration within European institutions and regional alliances. Stocker, in turn, acknowledged Magyar’s election victory as symbolically significant, suggesting that strengthened cooperation between Austria and Hungary could enhance Central Europe’s influence within the EU framework.
A notable outcome of their meeting was the agreement to conduct a joint cabinet session in September in Gödöllő, Hungary, to further political and economic coordination. Additionally, Magyar announced intentions to host a regional summit with Visegrád Group countries, potentially extending invitations to neighboring nations, including Austria, Croatia, Romania, and Slovenia. Key discussions during their talks revolved around migration, energy policy, and regional security, with both leaders advocating for enhanced border management collaboration and expedited EU expansion into the Western Balkans.
In terms of energy, Austria and Hungary called for advancing cross-border infrastructure and diversifying supply networks. They also explored major transport projects, such as improving rail connections between Budapest and Vienna and extending road links towards Austria. Economic issues were addressed, particularly focusing on Hungary’s special taxes impacting Austrian businesses. Magyar acknowledged the budgetary challenges and committed to fostering a more transparent, growth-oriented economic environment to attract higher-value foreign investments.
Environmental issues were also a topic of discussion, particularly the asbestos-contaminated stone shipments from Austrian quarries into western Hungary. Magyar announced the formation of a joint Austrian-Hungarian commission to investigate the matter and oversee remediation efforts. Stocker expressed understanding of Hungary’s concerns and assured Austrian authorities’ cooperation in addressing the issue.