Szijjarto: Cooperation between Audi, Hungary ‘real success story’

In a speech at an Audi Hungaria event, Szijjarto said Europe was facing “the most dangerous era of the past decades”, which increased the importance of reliable partnerships.

“And the now three-decade relationship between Hungary, Gyor and Audi is an excellent example of such a predictable partnership and friendly cooperation,” Szijjarto said.

The minister said there were intense debates in Hungary today about the potential dangers of electric vehicle industry investments. But, he added, after three decades it could be clear to everyone that there was no reason to fear new investments, especially if the investors adhere to strict regulations.

Szijjarto said it was not an exaggeration to say that the cooperation between Audi and Hungary, which he said was based on mutual respect, was “a real success story”.

He said the start of the mass production of electric motors was key to the Hungarian government’s decision to make it a strategic goal for Hungary to remain a European leader in the new era of the auto industry.

“And now here we are in 2023 when Audi can say that it’s one of the largest companies in Hungary, the company with the largest sales revenue and one of the most important exporters,” the minister said.

Audi has invested 12 billion euros in Hungary, making it the Hungarian car industry’s biggest investor, he said.

Fully 90 percent of the Hungarian car industry’s output is produced for export, Szijjarto said. And though Hungary is ranked only 95th by population, it is the world’s 20th largest auto exporter, he added.

“Hungary envisions its future with Audi . and it looks like Audi envisions its own future with Hungary,” Szijjarto said.