Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described his first meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar as very good on Friday. The two leaders met on the sidelines of an European Union summit in Brussels.
Both governments have worked to repair diplomatic ties since Hungary took office in May. Relations had experienced years of friction under Magyar’s Kremlin-friendly predecessor, Viktor Orban.
Zelensky spoke to reporters in Brussels following the one-on-one discussion. He stated that they covered subjects including relations, the economy, and logistics.
The meeting occurred days after Kyiv approved legislation addressing Budapest’s concerns regarding the rights of the ethnic Hungarian minority living in western Ukraine. Magyar released a statement on Friday describing this legislative move as a step toward restoring mutual trust.
Following the parliamentary vote, Hungary agreed to permit the European Union to open new chapters in accession negotiations with Ukraine. Magyar stated that both nations share an interest in placing political and economic relations on a new footing.
During their talks, Magyar assured Zelensky of his full solidarity regarding Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Zelensky expressed gratitude for this solidarity and for the Hungarian leader’s readiness to work together for peace.
The Ukrainian president stated that they also discussed Ukraine’s progress toward European Union accession. He thanked the prime minister for his principled steps and for facilitating the opening of two more negotiating clusters, and said efforts continue to open the remaining two clusters by the end of the year.
The two leaders addressed the diplomatic situation, efforts to end the war, bilateral cooperation, trade, and agricultural issues. Zelensky stated that Ukraine consistently supports good-neighborly relations and mutual strengthening.
In a post on social media platform X, Zelensky announced that the two leaders agreed to resume joint work at various levels and to exchange visits. Their respective teams will determine the dates for these upcoming visits.
