Ministerial meeting in Budapest canceled - background to the controversial journey of Premier Orban

Ministerial meeting in Budapest canceled - background to the controversial journey of Premier Orban

Hungary Cancelt Baerbock trip: Diplomatic standstill in the middle of political discrepancies

According to the latest political debates about Hungary Prime Minister Orban and his unexpected visit to President Putin in Moscow, an important meeting between Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and her Hungarian counterpart in Budapest was to be an important meeting. However, this planned encounter was canceled at short notice, which led to a diplomatic standstill and raises questions about future cooperation.

Why was the planned trip canceled?

The decision to cancel the meeting between Baerbock and the Hungarian Foreign Minister Szijjarto raises a few questions. The cancellation was made after Orban's own visit to Putin, the EU and NATO partner provoked and doubts about the credibility of the European Union. These events led to a breach of trust, which now also affects the planned encounter between the German and Hungarian officials.

The Federal Foreign Office regretted the rejection and emphasized the importance of an open and honest dialogue between the outside ministers in view of the latest developments. It remains to be seen whether the trip will be made up for later and whether the diplomatic relationships between Germany and Hungary can be normalized again.

The role of Hungary in the EU and the reactions

Hungary took over the rotating EU Council Presidency on July 1, but Orban's solo access at international meetings caused resentment within the EU. EU Commission President of the Leyen Described Orban's approach as a danger to the credibility of the European Union, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz pointed out that Orbans meet with Putin did not take place on behalf of the EU.

The political tensions and the absence of the planned meeting between Baerbock and Szijjarto throw a lightly on the fragile relationships within the EU and the challenges in front of which the member states are in order to protect a common political line.

It remains to be hoped that the diplomatic waves can be smoothed and constructive conversations lead to a solution to the current tensions.

© dpa-infocom, dpa: 240705-930-165476/1

- Nag