TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THE CONTEXT: Hungary has signed a cooperation agreement with Belarus to assist in the construction of its second nuclear plant, known as PAKS 2.
EXPLANATION:
- This development was announced by Hungarian Foreign Minister.
- The PAKS 2 project, which has been under construction by Russia’s Rosatom since 2014, aims to enhance Hungary’s nuclear energy capacity amidst ongoing delays and geopolitical tensions.
Highlights of the Agreement
- The agreement between Hungary and Belarus focuses on nuclear energy cooperation.
- While specific details of the accord were not disclosed, the cooperation will allow Hungary to leverage the experiences gained by Belarus in constructing similar reactors.
- This collaboration is intended to address the long-standing delays that have plagued the PAKS 2 project.
PAKS 2 Project Overview
- The PAKS 2 nuclear plant is being developed by Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom.
- It is located located in central Hungary.
- The project involves the construction of two reactors, each with a capacity of 1.2 gigawatts.
- The estimated cost of the project is 12.5 billion euros (approximately $13.57 billion).
- Despite nuclear power not being subject to European Union sanctions against Russia, the project has encountered significant delays.
Hungary Belarus
Geopolitical Context
- Hungary’s reliance on Russian energy is a critical factor in its approach to the PAKS 2 project.
- The Hungarian government has consistently opposed extending EU sanctions to cover the nuclear energy sector, underscoring its strategic dependence on Russian power supplies.
- This stance has led to strained relations with Kyiv and a more favorable relationship with Moscow compared to other EU member states.
Criticism of Military Training Proposals
- In addition to nuclear energy cooperation, Szijjarto criticized recent proposals from some European and NATO counterparts to send soldiers to Ukraine for training purposes.
- He expressed strong opposition to the idea, highlighting Hungary’s stance against further military involvement in the region.
- This criticism reflects the broader European Union debate, where defense ministers have yet to reach a consensus on training Ukrainian forces within Ukraine.
- Currently, the EU conducts training for Ukrainian troops, but this occurs within EU member states.
Hungary’s Diplomatic Position
- Hungary’s diplomatic position remains complex, balancing its commitments within the EU and NATO with its energy and political ties to Russia.
- The signing of the nuclear cooperation agreement with Belarus exemplifies Hungary’s strategic efforts to advance its energy projects while navigating the intricate geopolitical landscape.
- This move aligns with Hungary’s broader policy of maintaining energy security and independence amid the European Union’s diverse approaches to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.
SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/hungary-sign-nuclear-deal-belarus-9359192/
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