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The former "Tingzhong Brothers" have now embarked on a different path. Italy and Hungary, who is the European fulcrum of China's Belt and Road Initiative? A look at their trajectory may reveal the answer.
The choice of two countries
Six years ago, there was an unusual storm within the European Union, with two countries marching into the battleground between China and the United States, Italy and Hungary. It was at a time when Trump-inspired trade was intensifying, and the two countries were not afraid to join hands with China. Their actions send a strong signal to the world: no matter how the outside world changes, they will support China's Belt and Road Initiative without hesitation.
Six years later, Sino-US relations remain tense. And this pair of former "Tingzhong brothers" began their own different interpretations. Italy, originally like a hesitant flower, has twisted and withdrawn from the "Belt and Road" and turned to the so-called right embrace of the West. Hungary, on the other hand, continues to embrace China tightly and has now become the "China center" of the European Union, with an unprecedented economic take-off.
So, what is the reason for such a stark difference? Is it really because China has not given enough to Italy? In fact, in contrast, China's investment in Italy can be described as sparing no effort. Especially during the mask period, China selflessly sent a medical team to work with Italy to fight the difficulties, which shows China's love for Italy.
However, the fact is that Italy has left the Belt and Road Initiative so quickly. Hungary, on the other hand, has always stood firmly on China's side. Why is that? Let's look at this from another angle.
Perhaps, this is not entirely due to the fact that China has not done enough, but more because of Italy's internal problems. In recent years, Italy's political turmoil and domestic problems have emerged one after another, and internal instability has undoubtedly brought great uncertainty to the investment environment. In contrast, Hungary is relatively stable and has a good social order, which is undoubtedly a major advantage in attracting Chinese investment. In addition, the historical ties and cultural ties between Italy and the West cannot be overlooked. Under the long-term influence of Western culture, Italy has become more closely connected with the West, which also makes Italy more susceptible to Western influences and more inclined to Western values.
The truth behind it
Let's start with a look back at the history of Italy, a country rich in history and culture that was once the shining jewel of Europe, but as the tide of the times continues to change, Italy gradually falls into economic difficulties. Against the backdrop of high welfare, high deficit social systems, and the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis in the United States, Italy urgently needs to find new opportunities for development.
Just when Italy was in trouble, China's Belt and Road Initiative made its debut, which was a rare opportunity for Italy at that time! By participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, Italy can access a wealth of cooperation opportunities and investment support to promote economic recovery and development. However, Italy does not seem to fully appreciate this opportunity, enjoying the benefits of China while picking and complaining about China's demands for cooperation.
Hungary, by contrast, has shown a more positive and pragmatic approach, and although it has also faced economic hardship and oppression from the EU's powers, they have not complained or backed down because of this. On the contrary, they see great potential and opportunities for cooperation with China, and actively participate in the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Hungary and China have carried out extensive cooperation in the economic and trade fields, and have also strengthened exchanges and cooperation in the fields of culture and education. This all-encompassing cooperation has brought tangible benefits and benefits to Hungary. Today, Hungary has become one of the fastest growing countries in the European Union, and its economic growth rate is among the highest in the European Union for many years.
So, netizens, do you understand? In the international arena, choice is key, and not every country has the opportunity to be as aggressive as Hungary. However, Italy does not need to be discouraged, as long as it seizes the opportunities in front of it, the future is still bright!
Why work with China
When it comes to Italy, I believe everyone knows that this country has a long history and culture, and pride and self-esteem are not covered. They may see themselves as important in Europe and the world, and may be more critical and demanding of China's cooperation.
Hungary, on the other hand, is more pragmatic and open-minded, and they see great potential and opportunities for cooperation with China, and are willing to make efforts to achieve this. So, attitude is everything!
As one of the founding members of the European Union, Italy has a high status and influence in the European Union. Sometimes, however, such a position can also make Italy overconfident or opinionated, missing out on opportunities to work with China. Hungary, on the other hand, has a relatively low status, but they cherish the opportunity to cooperate with China more and are willing to make more efforts to achieve it.
Now, let's take a look at the trajectory of Italy and Hungary six years on, and although Italy is still one of the important economies in the European Union, its economic growth has slowed down significantly, and even stagnated. Hungary, with its close cooperation with China, has achieved rapid economic growth and development, is it not a sigh of the efforts and wisdom of Hungary as a country?
Therefore, choosing cooperation, choosing openness, and choosing pragmatism may be the key to success, and I believe that Italy and Hungary will achieve greater achievements in future cooperation!
epilogue
In the tide of globalization, no country can stand alone, and only those countries that can actively embrace changes and seize opportunities can stand out in the fierce competition. For Italy, perhaps it is time to reflect on why Hungary, which once fought alongside it, was able to have the last laugh while it was in trouble.
What do netizens think of Italy and Hungary? Welcome your message in the comment area!