A main objective is to promote the exchange of experience and the spread of technological innovation in both countries.Continue reading
At the Budapest Eurasia Forum organized by the Hungarian National Bank, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán highlighted the significance of Eurasia’s economic and cultural unity while addressing the challenges facing Europe in an era of shifting global power. The politician emphasized Hungary’s independent strategy and the need for timely decision-making to secure its place in a changing world.
Viktor Orbán opened his remarks by stressing that the 21st century marks the rise of Eurasia as a dominant economic and political force, with Asia leading global growth and innovation. He noted that modernity has moved beyond being solely a Western concept, stating that
the center of the world economy has shifted eastward, with eastern economies growing four times as fast as western economies.”
The Prime Minister also criticized Europe’s declining influence, pointing out that European innovation has stagnated and Europe is no longer among the world’s top five economies. He argued that this decline results from a “bloc mentality” among European leaders who resist adapting to new realities.
Mr. Orbán highlighted Hungary’s proactive approach to this global shift, emphasizing the nation’s deliberate pivot to the East alongside traditional Western partnerships. He explained that Hungary doubled its exports to both the East and the West in the past decade and diversified its energy and investment policies.
Hungary trades with everyone,” the politician noted, adding that major government-backed investments planned for 2025 demonstrate the success of this strategy.
He also described Hungary’s disputes with Brussels as stemming from its independent national policy, which he said is “based on new realities” and “takes note of the given circumstances.”
The Head of Government underscored the importance of acting decisively and swiftly in the face of global changes. He warned that “for a country the size of Hungary, a mismatch of pace can be fatal.” Reflecting on Hungary’s past, he cited the ill-timed attempt to exit World War II as a historical example of the costs of poor timing.
He insisted that smaller nations must seize opportunities promptly to compete on the global stage.
Viktor Orbán framed his vision of Eurasian unity as a return to a natural order. He argued that Europe and Asia form an organic economic and cultural unit, disrupted by historical shifts in trade and power. “We are the living idea of Eurasia,” he declared, emphasizing Hungary’s unique position as a nation rooted in Asia but thoroughly integrated into Europe. The Prime Minister concluded by urging Europe to embrace its Eurasian identity, warning that failure to adapt would perpetuate its decline. For Hungary, he expressed confidence, stating: “we can think that the world economy and the European economy are finally facing a fortunate period which will give Hungary a historic opportunity for development.”
Via MTI; Featured Image: MTI / Miniszterelnöki Sajtóiroda / Benko Vivien Cher