Beijing, Budapest upgrade partnership

China and Hungary elevated bilateral ties to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for the new era as the two nations pledged to deepen cooperation in sectors including infrastructure development, artificial intelligence and nuclear energy.

President Xi Jinping and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban made the announcement about the elevation of bilateral ties while meeting journalists on Thursday at the Prime Minister's Office in Budapest.

"From this new starting point, we will do what we can to bring the bilateral relationship and pragmatic cooperation onto a golden voyage toward greater goals," Xi told reporters. "This will enable us to inject strong impetus into the development and prosperity of our two countries. China wishes to enjoy common development and prosperity with Hungary. I believe that with joint efforts from both sides, we will embrace a brighter future."

The trip to Budapest, the last stop in Xi's six-day visit to Europe, came as the two nations celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties this year.

China is Hungary's largest trading partner outside of Europe, and Hungary is one of China's most important trading partners in the Central and Eastern European region.

To build up political mutual trust, Xi said that the two nations will maintain the momentum of close high-level interactions, strengthen dialogue and exchanges between the two governments, legislatures, and political parties, share governance experience and firmly support each other's core interests.

The Chinese president said Beijing and Budapest agree that the Belt and Road Initiative is highly compatible with Hungary's Eastern Opening policy.

"We will connect our development strategies more closely, deepen economic, trade, investment and financial cooperation, and advance the Budapest-Belgrade railway and other key projects," he said.

To enhance public support for bilateral ties, the two nations will continue to support the teaching of each other's language, make good use of their respective cultural centers, strengthen sports, media and subnational exchanges and cooperation, Xi said.