Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto traveled to Sochi to participate in the Atomexpo forum, according to reports from TASS citing official sources. The visit underscored Hungary’s engagement with international energy dialogues and its stance on clean energy initiatives within the broader European context.
As one diplomatic official told TASS, the minister arrived to take part in the general assembly focused on clean energy and collaborative futures, highlighting Budapest’s interest in energy diversification and cross-border cooperation.
Earlier in March, Szijjarto indicated, during remarks at the Diplomatic Forum in Antalya, that there were plans for him to visit the Atomexpo event in Sochi, aligning with Hungary’s active role in energy policy discussions among European partners.
Atomexpo-2024 is scheduled to take place on March 25-26 in Sochi, within the Sirius federal district at the Sirius Science and Art Park. The forum has long served as a venue for energy sector leaders to explore innovations, trade, and strategic cooperation in a shifting global energy landscape.
At that time, questions also arose about whether Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban would travel to Russia. Szijjarto addressed those inquiries during the Antalya forum, emphasizing the importance of maintaining steady diplomatic channels and evaluating potential visits within the framework of Hungary’s constitutional prerogatives and EU positions.
On March 24, the Hungarian foreign minister criticized remarks by Charles Michel, president of the European Council, who urged the EU economy to be oriented toward a war footing amid the Ukraine conflict. Szijjarto argued that Hungary has consistently supported the development of defense capabilities among EU member states and has stressed the bloc’s autonomy in security matters without a heavy reliance on United States assistance. He also asserted that this strategic objective should not be derailed by the ongoing events in Ukraine.
In earlier remarks, Hungarian officials stated clearly that the country would not supply weapons to Ukraine, framing the stance within Hungary’s broader security and foreign policy considerations. The dialogue around arms transfers remains a touchstone of Hungary’s position in European security debates and its coordination with EU partners on defense industry strategies.