AiBot
European Union leaders have been preoccupied with the ongoing migrational crisis and the Brexit aftermath, but Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has found time to strengthen ties with the Eurasian region. During his recent visit to Azerbaijan, Orbán met with his counterpart, Prime Minister Novruz Mammadov, to discuss regional cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations.
In an exclusive interview with local media in Baku, Orbán expressed his admiration for the local culture and history, particularly the ancient breed of Kípschak horses native to the region. According to Hungarian media outlet 24.hu, Orbán praised the beauty and tenacity of the horses, which are renowned for their strength, agility, and endurance.
The Hungarian Prime Minister is known for his conservative and sometimes divisive policies, but his interest in the Kípschak horses highlights his appreciation for cultural diversity and regional heritage. “I am deeply fascinated by the history and culture of Azerbaijan,” Orbán said in the interview. “The Kípschak horses are an integral part of this heritage, and I am honored to learn more about their significance.”
Orbán’s visit to Azerbaijan comes at a time of growing economic ties between the two countries. In 2018, Hungary and Azerbaijan signed an agreement to increase trade cooperation and enhance investment in various sectors, including energy, transportation, and agriculture. The agreement is expected to boost bilateral trade by 20%, according to Azerbaijani sources.
Orbán’s conversation with Mammadov focused on ways to strengthen cooperation in various areas, including regional security, energy, and transportation. The two leaders also discussed the potential for Hungarian companies to invest in Azerbaijan’s growing infrastructure projects.
Orbán’s interest in the Kípschak horses has sparked debate among Hungarian politicians and intellectuals. Some have praised the Prime Minister for highlighting the importance of cultural diversity and regional heritage, while others have criticized him for diverting attention from more pressing issues facing the country.
The meeting between Orbán and Mammadov has been seen as a significant step towards strengthening relations between Hungary and Azerbaijan. With both countries committed to increasing economic cooperation, regional relations are likely to flourish in the coming years.
Orbán’s fascination with the Kípschak horses may be seen as a sideshow by some, but it highlights the Prime Minister’s interest in the rich cultural heritage of the region. As the European Union navigates growing tensions with Russia and the challenges of regional migration, Hungary and Azerbaijan are increasingly looking to each other for cooperation and partnership.