Hungary is interested in civilised east–west cooperation rather than a renewed division of the world into blocs, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said in Budapest on Tuesday before departing for Beijing.

According to the ministry’s statement, the minister explained that current global economic, security and social tensions have pushed the world towards bloc division, a development he described as contrary to Hungary’s interests. “We, Hungarians, are interested in a return to global cooperation based on mutual respect,” he underlined.

He emphasised that Hungary has demonstrated the advantages of east–west cooperation, which in recent years has become a major driver of the national economy. “One of the most important resources of Hungary’s economic performance over the past decade has been its role as a meeting point of East and West,” he said.

Szijjártó announced that during his visit he would discuss with his Chinese counterpart and with the heads of major Chinese companies how to further develop Hungarian-Chinese economic cooperation. “We will explore how to bring new Chinese investments to Hungary and ensure that Hungary continues to be among the winners of civilised east–west cooperation,” he added.

The minister will represent Hungary at China’s Victory Day parade, to be held in Beijing on September 3.