The Sino-Hungarian Relations in the 21st Century

This thesis examines the evolving relationship between China and Hungary, focusing on the motives, perceptions, and expectations that drive their cooperation in the 21st century. China's global influence as a political, economic, and military power makes its relationships with other countries particularly significant. Historically, Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), including Hungary, was not a focal point in China's foreign policy. However, in the past decade, China has increasingly engaged with the region, recognizing the strategic advantages of these countries' EU membership and the economic opportunities they present. Hungary has emerged as one of China's closest partners in the region, marked by high-level visits, investments, and various forms of cooperation. The relevance of this topic is underscored by the growing interest in Chinese investments in Hungary and the strategic desire to strengthen bilateral ties amid China's expanding global influence. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Sino-Hungarian relations by exploring their historical development, the main fields of cooperation, and the societal and business perceptions of this partnership. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights from surveys and interviews. This methodology allows for a detailed examination of the economic, political, and cultural dimensions of the Chinese-Hungarian relationship. The findings indicate that economic interests, particularly Hungary's Eastern Opening policy, play a significant role in driving the bilateral relationship. Hungarian policymakers and businesses see China as a key partner in accessing growing Asian markets and attracting foreign investment. This thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a nuanced analysis of Sino-Hungarian relations, highlighting the complexities and potential of this partnership in the broader context of global politics and economics. The research underscores the importance of understanding the motives and dynamics of smaller countries like Hungary in navigating relations with major powers such as China.