China, Hungary elevate ties to all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership

Hailing Europe as an important pole in a multi-polar world and an important partner on China's path toward Chinese modernization, Xi said it is hoped that Hungary will take the opportunity of taking on the rotating presidency of the European Union (EU) in the second half of this year to promote the steady and sound development of China-EU relations.

The cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European countries (CEEC) has a strong internal driving force, Xi said, expressing hope that Hungary will continue to play an important role in promoting the China-CEEC cooperation to better benefit people of various countries.

For his part, Orban told Xi that his visit once again demonstrates the profound friendship and huge potential between Hungary and China, and is of great historical significance to Hungary and Hungary-China relations.

Hungary supports China in safeguarding its core interests and legitimate rights, and has adhered and will adhere to the one-China principle, said Orban.

The Hungarian government "reaffirms that there is but one China in the world, that the Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing China. Hungary opposes all forms of separatist activities at breaking the unity of China," said the joint statement released Thursday.

His country does not identify with the rhetoric of so-called "overcapacity" or "de-risking." China's development is an opportunity rather than a risk for Europe, and Hungary is willing to strengthen multilateral communication and cooperation with China to jointly safeguard world peace and stability, said Orban during his talks with Xi.

The two leaders had an in-depth exchange of views on the Ukraine crisis.

Xi stressed that China has always been committed to promoting peace talks and is willing to continue working with relevant parties to make positive efforts to realize peace at an early date.