“This is a Favorable Moment for Us to Move Forward with Hungarian–Taiwanese Relations”

Abstract

The present study examines the process and international context of Hungarian–Taiwanese bilateral negotiations leading to the opening of the Taipei Trade Office, based on Hungarian archival documents. The process began with the democratization of political life in Taiwan in 1987 and was followed by Taipei’s subsequent opening towards Eastern European socialist states. Hungarian politicians were initially cautious about the establishment of relations with the island, as they always had to consider China’s political sensitivities and the possible consequences of their actions regarding Sino–Hungarian relations. However, the year 1989 marked a turning point. The Hungarian leadership urged economic cooperation with Taiwan because economic liberalization in Hungary resulted in a financial crisis, and Taiwanese investment and financial assistance could contribute to easing the situation. The Taiwanese side was willing to engage in financial cooperation in exchange for greater international visibility.