Putin visit elicits mixed reactions from parties

Budapest, February 3 (MTI) – Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Hungary on Thursday has provoked mixed reactions from Hungarian politicians attending a panel discussion on Russia’s efforts to gain influence in Hungary and Europe. Putin’s talks in Budapest were conducted in a “constructive, pragmatic atmosphere based on mutual respect,” Hungary’s foreign minister told public media.

Lawmaker Gergely Gulyás, deputy leader of ruling Fidesz, said the two countries seek to maintain “normal, consolidated” relations, which involves regular top-level meetings.

He said that Hungary’s involvement in Euro-Atlantic integration does not rule out balanced ties with Russia.

Gulyás called Russia vital in guaranteeing Hungary’s safe energy supply. He added that the economic sanctions proved abortive and ran counter to Europe’s interest of developing balanced ties with Russia.

Peter Ungár, foreign policy spokesman of the green LMP, called the policy of sanctions a response to Russia’s actions.

“There is hardly any step more detrimental to Hungary’s interests than Russia’s move to enter the territory of one of Hungary’s neighbours,” he said.

Istvan Szent-Iványi, foreign policy expert of the Liberal Party, said “the Russian regime is oppressive and despotic, which alone makes it problematic to maintain ties with it.” He accused Russia of efforts to reach a new Yalta Treaty, which “would enable it to do what it wants” in central and eastern Europe, he said.