Hungary Reviews Paks Nuclear Project Amid EU Relations Shift

In a strategic reevaluation, Hungary's freshly elected government is set to reassess the financial and operational framework of the Paks nuclear power plant expansion, as disclosed by the new ministerial nominee for economy and energy affairs.

The substantial 12.5 billion euro initiative, initially allocated to Russia's Rosatom without competitive bidding, has faced prolonged delays, reflecting the previously strong ties between Hungary and Moscow under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The current administration is determined to recalibrate these relations to foster closer ties with the European Union.

Istvan Kapitany, during a parliamentary hearing, emphasized the necessity of a transparent nuclear strategy, indicating a need to scrutinize the classified contracts linked to the Paks 2 expansion. Concurrently, Prime Minister Peter Magyar contends the project's costs are overly inflated, while Rosatom maintains its readiness to justify expenses. Ministerial appointee Anita Orban underscores the aim to establish a balanced relationship with Russia, advocating against dependency amid ongoing geopolitical pressures.

(With inputs from agencies.)