The Interconnector State: Hungary as Central Europe’s Future Energy Hub

Hungary is rapidly emerging as a strategic energy hub in Central and Eastern Europe, driven by pragmatic foreign policy choices and targeted infrastructure investments under the leadership of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. This panel explores how Hungary has balanced the preservation of traditional energy ties with Russia while actively diversifying through new partnerships with Caspian and Central Asian countries. In the context of the EU’s post-Ukraine crisis push for energy diversification, Hungary has maintained access to affordable Russian gas via the TurkStream pipeline. At the same time, it has strengthened its role in the Southern Gas Corridor through new interconnectors and supply agreements with Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan.

The event will examine Hungary’s strategic acquisition of port rights in Trieste, which enhances its maritime access and energy trade capabilities. Discussions will also focus on the expanding international role of Hungarian energy companies such as MOL and MVM in reinforcing regional energy security. Special attention will be given to Hungary’s position in major green energy initiatives, including the Black Sea Submarine Cable project. This project is set to transmit renewable electricity from the South Caucasus and potentially Central Asia into the European grid via Hungary. The panel will further address Hungary’s growing cooperation with Kazakhstan on oil imports and plans for a Kazakh energy terminal. By the late 2020s, the completion of key projects is expected to cement Hungary’s role as a central node in Europe’s evolving conventional and renewable energy networks.

Speakers:

• Mátyás Vajda, Research Fellow, Danube Institute
• Dávid Biró, Senior Advisor, Research and Academic Network Lead, Directorate General for International Affairs, Ludovika University of Public Service
• Mahammad Mammadov, Research Fellow, Topchubashov Center (Azerbaijan)
• Nadežda Kokotović, Director, Brussels Energy Club
  Moderator: Ibrahim Mammadov, Head of Turkic-Western Engagement Initiative (TWEI), Danube Institute

Details:

Date & time: Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 5:30 P.M.
Venue: Lónyay-Hatvany Villa, 1 Csónak Street, 1015 Budapest (Entrance; Aranybástya Restaurant)
Gate opens: 5:00 P.M.
Language: English

Participation is free; however, due to limited seating, pre-registration is required.