A potential “golden era“ in US-Hungarian relations is expected, based on close ties between the leaders of the two countries. This was stated by Robert Palladino, chargé d'affaires at the US Embassy in Budapest, quoted by the Hungarian news agency MTI, BTA reports.
During a conversation with the director of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs Gladén Papin, Palladino stressed that President Donald Trump “takes pride in keeping his promises and acting quickly“, which heralds “an exciting period“. He defined the new course of US foreign policy as a return to traditional diplomacy and common sense.
“We are talking common language“, the diplomat said, expressing confidence in the shared values and interests between Washington and Budapest. He added that both countries strive for close cooperation, especially in the areas of security and the economy.
Palladino pointed out that the US administration is guided by the question: “Will this make the US safer, stronger and more successful?“, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio insists. Against the backdrop of a growing foreign debt reaching $36 trillion, the diplomat stressed the need for economic reform and fair international trade.
The US diplomat welcomed the call by Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó for a more active role for the EU in trade negotiations with the US. He described the US economy as “one of the most open in the world”, but noted that it often faces protectionism and trade barriers.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Palladino said that ending the conflict is a priority for the Trump administration. He stressed the need for negotiations between the countries and called on Europe to take greater responsibility for its security by increasing defense spending.
Palladino pointed to specific opportunities for strengthening cooperation between the US and Hungary - from defense and energy to contacts between citizens. He described as exaggerated the allegations of a “divorce” between the EU and the US, recalling the common values and history.
According to him, Trump's return to the White House creates the prerequisites for a new beginning in bilateral relations, leaving behind the tensions of the previous term. "This closeness between the leaders must translate into tangible results," he said.
The US administration intends to focus on energy, defense, trade and people-to-people ties. During a visit to the Paks NPP, Palladino stressed the importance of energy security, noting that US companies are ready to supply nuclear fuel. He also highlighted the role of small modular reactors as part of future cooperation.
"Hungary is our ally," the diplomat concluded, expressing optimism for the development of bilateral relations.