Hungary cooperating with Chinese Huawei: Biden cabinet outraged

In a recent turn of events, Hungary’s 4iG and Huawei have forged a technological partnership that has sparked significant concern in the United States. As the two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding, this collaboration has become a focal point for discussions on diplomatic relations, national security and the role of technology in global geopolitics.

The unfolding 4iG-Huawei partnership

According to G7, the new partnership agreement entails cooperation in various tech sectors. It encompasses mobile and fixed communications development, technical research, and the provision of the joint data centre, cloud and IT infrastructure services. This strategic collaboration between 4iG and Huawei signifies their intent to play a pivotal role in the ongoing 5G network development, a global race for high-speed data transmission.

US government voices concerns

Representatives of the US government wasted no time in expressing their reservations about this partnership. During their discussions with Gellért Jászai, the head of 4iG, they emphasised their concerns regarding Huawei’s involvement. The Chinese company has faced numerous restrictions in the US and other Western nations due to national security apprehensions. In response, Jászai has suggested that American concerns stem from a reluctance to witness a prominent telecom company in the heart of Europe expanding its influence with Huawei’s technology. This assertion highlights the geopolitical dimension of the partnership, raising questions about Hungary’s stance and its international alignments.

National security and geopolitical implications

This partnership with Huawei has far-reaching implications, particularly concerning national security concerns. Western countries have expressed unease about Huawei’s close ties with the Chinese state, fearing potential cyberattacks and espionage activities. Huawei has consistently denied these allegations and has sought to challenge them in court, but doubts persist.

US-Hungary relations in the spotlight

Of particular interest is the broader context of US-Hungary relations, especially under the Biden administration. The US’s stance on this partnership could influence diplomatic ties. Moreover, it has the potential to add complexity to the evolving geopolitical landscape. The situation becomes even more intriguing when considering Hungary’s unique position, as it has not displayed the same level of “Huawei phobia” as most Western countries.

4iG’s expanding role and international reach

4iG’s ambitions extend beyond Hungary’s borders, as evidenced by its recent partnership with the Montenegrin government to develop a 5G network. Additionally, it may play a role in the construction of a submarine cable linking Albania to Egypt. These expansion efforts further complicate the dynamics between Hungary and the US.

Hungary has a decade-long history of cooperation with Huawei. Earlier this month, the Hungarian Economic Development Minister signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with Huawei, solidifying their ongoing collaboration. However, in this rapidly evolving landscape, the implications for US-Hungary relations remain a subject of great interest. The US’s stance on Hungary’s 4iG-Huawei partnership has the potential to impact diplomatic ties with Hungary and the leadership of Viktor Orbán, adding an additional layer of complexity to the unfolding geopolitical narrative.