President holds talks with dignitaries

President Xi Jinping hopes China and Hungary will further tap their joint potential for cooperation on a variety of projects.

During a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Xi said friendship and cooperation are always the main themes of the Sino-Hungarian relationship, and the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership in May last year has opened up more space to develop bilateral ties.

He said both countries should deepen mutual political support and trust, continue understanding and supporting each other on issues involving core interests and major concerns, and enhance coordination on international affairs.

China and Hungary should promote the alignment of their development initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative, and cooperate fully in more areas, Xi said.

He called for more achievements to be made in such areas as trade and economy, investment, finance, agriculture, tourism and innovation, adding that he hopes Hungary can further access the Chinese market through the China International Import Expo.

Orban said next year marks the 70th anniversary of the two countries' establishment of diplomatic ties, and it is an important opportunity to push for greater development of bilateral ties under new circumstances.

Hungary is willing to maintain high-level contacts with China, actively participate in the joint construction of the BRI, expand practical cooperation in all areas, and play a bigger role in enhancing cooperation between Hungary and China as well as ties between China and Europe overall, Orban said.