Hungary to Russia: Let’s do more business

“We also held a business forum, in which 173 entrepreneurs from both sides took part. For me, this shows that there is not only a political desire to improve economic relations, but business also wants this,” he said.

Hungary’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to POLITICO’s request for comment.

Hungary’s vocal opposition to EU sanctions against Russia and its interest in strengthening economic ties with Moscow have raised concerns within the EU, leading to tensions between Brussels and Budapest.

EU foreign ministers and finance ministers recently boycotted EU meetings held in Budapest in September, sending a message of growing frustration about Hungary’s attitude toward Russia.