Andrej Babiš and new Péter Magyar met in Prague on October 29, 2026, holding the first joint intergovernmental consultations between the two countries. The meeting brought eight members of the Hungarian cabinet to the Czech capital for talks on European competitiveness, energy security, migration, the future EU budget, and EU enlargement. While Babiš addressed long-standing political ties and a new transportation memorandum with Magyar, the visiting Hungarian leader publicly criticized his predecessor Viktor Orbán.
Prague Talks Target High-Speed Rail and Transport Cooperation
During the intergovernmental meeting, Babiš and Magyar announced that both countries will push for European funding for high-speed rail lines during negotiations on the upcoming seven-year EU financial framework. Ivan Bednárik and his counterpart signed a memorandum of cooperation focused on building a high-speed railway connecting Prague, Brno, Bratislava, and Budapest. Babiš noted that the Central European region has fallen behind in high-speed rail development. The transportation agreement also covers preparations for 740-meter freight trains, the ERTMS railway communication system, and smart road transport technologies.
The bilateral discussions extended beyond rail infrastructure to encompass broader international and security concerns. Magyar subsequently traveled from the Strakova akademie to meet with Petr Pavel at Prague Castle. President Pavel and Magyar discussed the new Hungarian government’s positions on EU enlargement, as noted in updates from the Office of the President on X.
Did You Know? Péter Magyar arrived in Prague driving the same blue Škoda Superb he used across Hungary during his election campaign, breaking standard protocol by leaving the vehicle parked outside the gates of Kramářova vila while Babiš welcomed him in the garden.
Andrej Babiš welcomed Péter Magyar at the Kramář Villa. Following the official greeting and photo session, the two heads of government commenced their bilateral talks, to be followed by the joint session of the 🇨🇿 and 🇭🇺 cabinets. pic.twitter.com/HKsjNMgeU4
Political Ties, Media Spat, and Orbán Confrontation
The diplomatic proceedings in Prague highlighted a sharp contrast between Babiš’s established alliance with former Viktor Orbán and Magyar’s vocal opposition to his predecessor. Magyar referred to Orbán as a “mafia boss” during a press conference while discussing potential bids for United Nations leadership, accusing the former administration of embezzling state funds. In contrast, Babiš rejected claims of a strained relationship with the current leadership, telling the press that media outlets largely manufactured the narrative of an exclusive alliance with Orbán. Babiš and Orbán have a documented history of mutual support, including joint appearances and shared membership in the Patriots for Europe European parliamentary faction.
Czech and Hungarian Governments Hold First Joint Consultations in Prague
When did the first joint government consultations take place in Prague?
The meeting between the Czech and Hungarian governments took place on Thursday, October 29, 2026, marking the first time the two cabinets met in this specific intergovernmental format.
What specific transport projects did the two countries agree to pursue?
Both prime ministers announced plans to seek European funding for high-speed rail connections linking Prague, Brno, Bratislava, and Budapest, alongside initiatives to support 740-meter freight trains and transport digitization.
Who did Péter Magyar meet with in addition to Andrej Babiš?
After the governmental talks at the Strakova akademie, Magyar traveled to Prague Castle for a scheduled meeting with Petr Pavel.
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