Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker and Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar met in Vienna on Thursday, marking a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation between the two nations. During Magyar’s second official foreign trip since assuming office, he engaged in discussions with Austrian leaders, business figures, and regional officials. The visiting Hungarian delegation included senior ministers overseeing foreign affairs, the economy, transport, and environmental policy.
In a joint press conference, Prime Minister Magyar emphasized Hungary’s commitment to constructive engagement within the European Union, while also upholding its national interests. He highlighted the importance of collaboration within European institutions and fostering regional partnerships. Chancellor Stocker lauded Magyar’s election victory as a significant symbol and expressed optimism that closer ties between Austria and Hungary could amplify Central Europe’s influence within the EU.
The discussions set the stage for a joint cabinet meeting scheduled for September in Gödöllő, Hungary, aimed at deepening political and economic coordination. Magyar also unveiled plans for a regional summit involving Visegrád Group countries, with potential invitations extended to neighboring nations such as Austria, Croatia, Romania, and Slovenia. Key issues on the agenda included migration, energy policy, and regional security, with both governments advocating for enhanced border management cooperation and support for accelerating the EU’s expansion into the Western Balkans.
In the energy sector, the two countries called for expanded cross-border infrastructure and diversification of supply networks. This included discussions on major transport projects, such as improving rail links between Budapest and Vienna and extending road connections toward Austria. Economic relations were also a focal point, particularly concerns over Hungary’s special taxes affecting Austrian businesses. Magyar acknowledged Hungary’s challenging budget situation and expressed a commitment to fostering a more transparent and growth-oriented economic system while attracting higher-value foreign investment.
Environmental issues were also on the table, notably the asbestos-contaminated stone shipments from Austrian quarries into western Hungary. Magyar announced the formation of a joint Austrian-Hungarian commission to investigate the matter and oversee cleanup efforts. Chancellor Stocker assured Hungary of Austria’s cooperation and support in addressing these concerns.