Incoming Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar is set to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for informal talks in Brussels on Wednesday, as he pushes to reboot Hungary's ties with the EU and unlock frozen funding.

Magyar is looking to convince the bloc to release around €10 billion in pandemic recovery funds that had been frozen over rule-of-law concerns under his predecessor Viktor Orban. The funds must be secured by the end of August or be lost permanently.

The new leader has outlined four key areas for reform to claim the EU cash: the judiciary, anti-corruption measures, media freedom, and civil society. These reforms are seen as crucial for addressing the EU's concerns.

Orban, a close ally of Russia and US President Donald Trump, had a tense relationship with the EU, marked by disputes over the rule of law, vetoes of unanimous decisions, and blocking a €90 billion Ukraine loan package.

On April 12, Magyar's center-right Tisza party won a landslide victory, ending Orban's 16-year rule. EU leaders welcomed the win, with von der Leyen saying it made the bloc "stronger, more united."

Magyar is slated to take office next month. His team has already held two rounds of talks with EU officials. On Wednesday, he will also meet European Council President Antonio Costa, who expressed hope for close cooperation.

EU leaders also hope Magyar's win will herald a new Hungarian approach on Ukraine. Last week, the EU approved the €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Magyar has proposed a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in early June in the city of Berehove.

Source: www.dw.com