Former Hungarian Foreign Minister to Work for Chinese Automaker BYD

Péter Szijjártó, who served as Hungary's foreign minister in three governments led by Viktor Orbán, has announced he is resigning his parliamentary mandate to join Chinese automaker BYD. In a Facebook post, Szijjártó stated he received an "extremely honorable offer" to take an international position at one of the world's leading companies. He called BYD "one of the greatest success stories in the automotive industry in the last twenty years" and a global leader in new energy vehicles. Szijjártó will serve as a director responsible for external relations and the development of new business areas for the group. BYD's Hungarian representation confirmed to MTI that Szijjártó has been offered a "global, international position" and will not be part of the company's management in Hungary. Szijjártó was a prominent supporter of Chinese electric vehicles during his tenure and was known as a key figure in Orbán's pro-Russia policies. Upon leaving office, he stated he never served Russian interests. New Hungarian authorities have accused Szijjártó of destroying important documents related to sanctions while departing from his ministerial post.