Euronews EU News Editor Maria Tadeo has been covering Péter Magyar’s significant first visit to Brussels, where Hungary's prime minister-elect is actively working to unlock billions of euros in suspended EU funding. This crucial trip comes as Magyar hopes to avoid losing approximately €10 billion by an August deadline, funds currently blocked due to ongoing concerns regarding the rule of law in Hungary.

Magyar is scheduled to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels for what sources describe as "informal talks." He is not expected to address the media during this visit. Those familiar with his intentions emphasize his eagerness to swiftly address the files linked to Hungary’s frozen EU payments. Following his meeting with von der Leyen, Magyar will also engage with EU Council President António Costa. This direct engagement marks a pivotal shift after Viktor Orbán’s tumultuous veto policies strained bilateral relations between Budapest and other EU leaders to a near breaking point.

The trip establishes a direct line of communication with Brussels ahead of Magyar's swearing-in ceremony in Budapest on May 9th, a date that also commemorates Europe Day. Although Magyar had initially planned to visit mid-May after a European tour, an official from his Tisza Party stated that the meeting on Wednesday was prompted by “exceptional circumstances that necessitate speed.” His primary objective is to salvage the €10 billion in EU funds, which he asserts "belong to Hungarians," before the August deadline, or risk their forfeiture.

Technical discussions between officials from the Commission and Magyar's Tisza Party have already commenced. Earlier this month, Ursula von der Leyen’s chief of staff, Björn Seibert, held productive talks where both sides agreed to accelerate their collaborative efforts. Anita Orbán, Magyar’s incoming foreign minister, was also in Brussels last weekend. The decision to host talks with a government that has yet to formally take office underscores both the urgency of the situation and a renewed political willingness from both the Hungarian and EU sides.

Magyar’s approach to these negotiations notably contrasts with the persistent confrontation that characterized relations under outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who frequently clashed with EU institutions. Resetting relations with European partners and securing access to these vital funds were central tenets of Magyar's campaign, contributing to his landslide victory and supermajority, which should facilitate rapid reforms. To revitalize the Hungarian economy, Magyar recognizes he has little alternative but to engage constructively with Brussels. However, he faces the delicate challenge of making overtures to the EU while simultaneously preserving his image as a politician who acts independently, not merely taking orders.

Ahead of today’s meeting, Manfred Weber, the German head of the European People's Party (which includes Magyar’s Tisza Party), indicated that a new chapter in relations is warranted. Speaking to reporters in Strasbourg during the European Parliament's plenary session, Weber emphasized, “Europe must now be the friend on the side of Hungary, of this new government, delivering on the expectations of citizens.” He added, “The main message is to help them. This is what we have to do. Not to criticise, or make detailed discussions, but help them and be supportive,” further suggesting that Article 7 proceedings should be suspended once Magyar assumes office.