Germany eyes rapid reset of relations with Hungary

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has described his visit to Budapest as an opportunity to rapidly rebuild bilateral relations following the political transition that ended Viktor Orban’s 16-year rule, Reuters reports.

Wadephul, who arrived in Hungary on September 14, is the first German foreign minister to visit the country in nearly seven years. He said significant work remains to repair ties but argued that the political change in Hungary had created an opening for a fresh start.

“The political change ‌in ⁠Hungary offers an opportunity to rapidly restore our relations to a foundation ​of ​mutual ⁠trust and reliability,” Wadephul said.

Germany has welcomed the new direction under Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar, who took office this year after Orban’s long tenure.

By Vafa Guliyeva