A delegation from the European Commission is set to arrive in Budapest for negotiations with Hungary’s newly formed government, led by Prime Minister Péter Madár, on April 17. This meeting marks the first official discussions following Madár’s recent electoral victory, which ended a 16-year tenure under Viktor Orbán.
The European Commission confirmed that the talks aim to establish constructive relations after years of tension with the previous administration. Commission spokesperson Paola Pinho stated, “Time is of the essence regarding several issues. These preliminary discussions are intended to ensure that, following the formation of the government, actions can be taken promptly if deemed appropriate, so as not to lose time.”
Among the pressing issues for the European Union is the potential unblocking of a critical €90 billion loan for Ukraine, which Hungary has previously stalled. Madár has expressed willingness to engage with European leaders on this matter; however, the decision to proceed was made by the European Council in December, granting Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic the option to opt out of the program.
Madár anticipates that Orbán, who is stepping down, will lift his veto on the EU loan to Ukraine once oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline are restored. However, even if Budapest removes its objections, Slovakia, under Prime Minister Robert Fico, has not altered its stance on the issue.
Additionally, the formation of the new Hungarian government is expected to introduce bureaucratic delays, which may further complicate the situation. Reports indicate that the European Commission has postponed the first tranche of the €90 billion loan for Ukraine.
The European Commission is set to engage with Hungary's new government to discuss critical financial issues, including a stalled loan for Ukraine. The outcome of these negotiations may influence future EU-Hungary relations.