Strengthening Economic Ties with Belarus amid Geopolitical Challenges

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó articulated Hungary’s unwavering commitment to bolstering economic cooperation with Belarus, despite the prevailing sanctions.

Speaking at a business forum in Minsk, Minister Szijjártó candidly acknowledged the challenges arising from the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, which have undeniably impeded bilateral trade between the two neighboring nations.

However, Hungary remains resolute in its determination to expand and diversify economic ties with Belarus, particularly in sectors that remain unaffected by the existing sanctions regime.

The Foreign Minister underscored the Hungarian government’s steadfast support for such initiatives, a commitment made evident by the robust participation of Hungarian company executives in Minsk for bilateral negotiations.

In the preceding year, bilateral trade between Hungary and Belarus tallied an impressive EUR 142M, with a promising trajectory anticipated for the current fiscal cycle. Key sectors earmarked for intensified cooperation include food and agriculture, pharmaceuticals, construction, and machinery. The Hungarian government’s proactive stance towards fostering economic ties is further evidenced by its initiatives, including streamlined visa procedures for Belarusian citizens and the facilitation of educational exchanges between the two nations, aimed at nurturing fertile ground for mutual understanding and collaboration.

In the field of sports diplomacy, Péter Szijjártó extended a gracious offer of Hungarian stadiums to serve as venues for Belarusian teams confronted with restrictions owing to geopolitical tensions. Emphasizing the paramount importance of maintaining a strict demarcation between politics and sports, he advocated fervently for the unimpeded right of athletes to compete solely on the basis of merit and performance.

Turning his attention to the protracted conflict in Ukraine, Mr. Szijjártó reiterated Hungary’s steadfast commitment to abstaining from military entanglements,

urging instead a concerted effort towards a peaceful resolution through dialogue, cessation of hostilities, and diplomatic negotiations. He emphatically denounced any rhetoric or actions that might potentially exacerbate the conflict, underlining the imperative for international cooperation and concerted efforts towards de-escalation and conflict resolution in the volatile region.

Despite the formidable challenges posed by prevailing geopolitical tensions, Hungary remains resolute in its commitment to deepening economic cooperation with Belarus, guided by a pragmatic and forward-looking approach to diplomacy. The government’s unwavering support, coupled with initiatives in sports diplomacy and advocacy for peace in Ukraine, underscores Hungary’s steadfast commitment to fostering stability and prosperity in the region.

FM #Aleinik: People are tired of confrontation, pressure, escalation. This does not lead ‼️ to anything good.

We will always welcome the course of countries towards peace, creation, pragmatism, mutually respectful dialogue and cooperation. #Belarus always ☝️ reciprocate pic.twitter.com/VLhju6wkHT

— Belarus MFA (@BelarusMFA) May 29, 2024

Through sustained dialogue, collaboration, and mutual engagement, Hungary seeks to cultivate robust and mutually beneficial relations with Belarus, contributing to the broader objectives of regional stability, economic prosperity, and peaceful coexistence in Eastern Europe.

Via MTI; Featured Image: Facebook / Szijjártó Péter