Unpacking Turkey-Hungary relations with László Szerencsés

László Szerencsés, a postdoctoral researcher at the Stockholm University Institute for Turkish Studies (SUITS), joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to review the state of Turkey-Hungary ties.The conversation comes after Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán met with Turkish Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Istanbul Monday, Dec. 8. We cover the basis of bilateral ties, from pragmatic energy connectivity to civilizational rhetoric on shared Turkic heritage.Additionally, we discussed Turkey and Hungary’s role in both NATO and the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), as well as future prospects for the bilateral cooperation as Hungary heads into 2026 elections.Also referenced in this talk:Turkey to guarantee flow of Russian gas to Hungary, Orban says (Reuters)Viktor Orbán begins ‘anti-war roadshow’ as Hungary gears up for 2026 elections (Guardian)The Turkish Energy Hub and the Hungary Connection: Challenging EU Gas Diversification Efforts (SUITS)Hungary’s Opening Toward Turkey: from Economic Diversification to Political Partnership (IPC)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe