Published：May 18, 16:00Last updated：May 20, 03:14

Hungary's New PM Prioritizes Poland in First Foreign Visit

May. 18, 2026 16:00

Hungary's new Prime Minister, Péter Márki-Zay, chose Poland for his first foreign visit, signaling a shift from his predecessor's pro-Russia stance. The move was welcomed by the EU, as Hungary seeks to unfreeze nearly 20 billion euros in EU funds. Márki-Zay emphasized maintaining relations with China while adhering to EU regulations, indicating a pragmatic approach to foreign policy.

Summarized

8News

7Media

May. 20, 2026 00:29

Peter Magyar, Hungary's new Prime Minister, aims to improve relations with Poland during his first state visit to Warsaw in May 2026. He seeks to learn from Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

May. 20, 2026 03:14

Hungary's Prime Minister Magyar is on his first foreign trip. Relations with Poland deteriorated under his predecessor Orban. Magyar aims to rebuild trust. The trip took place on May 20, 2026.

Hungary's newly appointed Prime Minister Péter Márki-Zay chose Poland as the destination for his first foreign visit, signaling a strategic shift from his predecessor's pro-Russia stance. This move has been welcomed by the European Union, as Hungary seeks to unfreeze nearly 20 billion euros in EU funds. Márki-Zay emphasized maintaining relations with China while adhering to EU regulations, indicating a pragmatic approach to foreign policyChina.org.

🌍 Diplomatic Realignment

The visit marks a significant effort to realign Hungary with the European mainstream, distancing itself from the authoritarian drift under previous leadership. Márki-Zay's trip to Poland, a longtime ally, underscores his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and learning from Poland's political transformationToronto Star+1.

🤝 Strengthening Bilateral Relations

During his two-day visit, Márki-Zay met with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to discuss key issues, including energy cooperation and Ukraine-related matters. Poland plans to supply Hungary with liquefied natural gas (LNG), highlighting the practical outcomes of this diplomatic effortChina.org+1.

🔄 Rebuilding Trust

The visit also aims to rebuild trust between Hungary and Poland, which had deteriorated under Márki-Zay's predecessor, Viktor Orbán. By engaging in high-level discussions and emphasizing shared European values, Márki-Zay seeks to reintegrate Hungary into the European foldRadio France Internationale+2.

PolandHungaryDonald TuskEuropean UnionPéter Márki-Zay