Hungary investigates ex-Foreign Minister Szijjarto over corruption tied to BYD appointment
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Hungarian authorities have opened a criminal investigation into former Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto on suspicion of corruption following his appointment at Chinese automaker BYD. Prime Minister Peter Magyar said the move may appear as a payoff for Szijjarto’s efforts to secure BYD’s expansion in Hungary during his tenure. The case emerged as Szijjarto also faces scrutiny over leaked calls with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
The Investigation
Hungarian prosecutors opened the case on July 16 after a complaint by politician István Tényi. The probe centers on whether Szijjarto’s move to BYD constituted a conflict of interest, given his role as minister in attracting the Chinese automaker to Hungary. Szijjarto, who no longer holds parliamentary immunity, faces up to three years in prison if convicted. The national security committee is also reviewing potential risks linked to his position, with some meeting materials classified until 2051.
Political Fallout
Prime Minister Peter Magyar directly questioned the appointment, saying it could be seen as gratitude for Szijjarto’s prior government assistance to BYD. He announced plans to tighten conflict-of-interest rules, which could affect such transitions. Separately, leaked phone recordings between Szijjarto and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov have surfaced, allegedly discussing EU internal meetings and sanctions policy. The leaks have raised further concerns about Szijjarto’s conduct and potential improper diplomatic exchanges.
What's Next
Parliamentary investigators are expected to continue their review of Szijjarto’s BYD appointment and the classified materials. It remains unclear whether the probe will lead to formal charges or impact Hungary’s ties with China and Russia.
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Hungary investigates ex-Foreign Minister Szijjarto over corruption tied to BYD appointment
