Growing doubts about Orbán's soft line approach with Beijing

Hungary is undisputedly China's most vocal friend in the EU. Relations go back further than with other Central European states. But now there is trouble over a planned offshoot of Fudan University in Budapest. The project could lead to an – at least temporary – break with the alliance with Beijing. Because elections are coming up in Hungary. And apparently, China is not popular in the Hungarian capital. The outcome of the German elections could also influence developments.

Last updated: 24. July 2025