Hungary & Russia: Who really wants what?

Abstract

This article aims to evaluate the evolution of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's ''Eastern Opening'' initiative from economic level to political dimension in which brought Hungary and Russia closer. The research hypothesis is that gains out of this particular engagement are reciprocal and balanced? The author argues that Hungary’s new policy serves both Hungarian and Russian interests and offers mutual benefits but there are risks involved for Hungary. The paper argues that with new rapprochement Hungary has created decent room for manoeuvre in the international system. Another official motive is Hungary’s search for additional markets for its export-oriented economy. Given the limited size of Russian GDP and import capacity, it is debatable that closer political link to Russia will pay off economically for the Hungarian economy. Recent trade and political tensions between the West (of which Hungary is a part) and Russia (and China) increases the potential downside of Orbán’s “Opening to the West”.