Hungary Deepens Ties with Turkic States, Opens New European Office
Hungary has taken a significant step in its 'Eastern Opening' policy with the opening of the European Office of the Turkic Council in Budapest. This new office will oversee political, economic, and cultural news between the Turkic States and European institutions and peoples.
Hungary's interest in the Turkic States is not new. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has been actively involved in meetings related to these states, such as his summit with the President of Azerbaijan in October 2025. The relationship is marked by military cooperation, energy collaboration, and cultural bonds, particularly with Azerbaijan and Türkiye.
This increased engagement has led to tangible results. Hungary's active participation in the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has boosted trade with Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. The Green Energy Corridor project, connecting Central Asia to Central Europe, is a testament to Hungary's ambition to integrate into the larger transcontinental energy and trade news of Eurasia.
Hungary's Turkic orientation is part of long-term reforms aiming to diversify its foreign policy and extend influence beyond traditional Western spheres. This strategy aligns with the 'Eastern Opening' policy initiated by FIDESZ in 2010, which seeks to increase news with Asian countries, attract foreign investors, and find new markets for Hungarian exports.
Hungary's MOL Group has already invested in energy projects in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, focusing on oil and gas exploration and production. These investments reflect Hungary's commitment to its new eastern partners.
The opening of the European Office of the Turkic Council in Budapest signals Hungary's deepening ties with the Turkic States. This move, along with its participation in the OTS and investments in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, underscores Hungary's strategic pivot towards the East. As the first European nation to sign a cooperation agreement with China under the Belt and Road Initiative, Hungary is positioning itself as a major hub for trade and energy transit between Europe and Asia.
