Bulgaria-China Relations: Current Status and Prospects Cover Image

Българо-китайските отношения: състояние и перспективи
Bulgaria-China Relations: Current Status and Prospects

Author(s): Angel Orbetsov
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, History, Political Sciences, Diplomatic history, History and theory of political science
Published by: Великотърновски университет „Св. св. Кирил и Методий”
Keywords: Bulgaria; China; European Union; relations; strategy; co-operation; “17+1” Initiative

Summary/Abstract: China is a key partner for Bulgaria in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, which is the result of well-entrenched traditions and recently-attained dynamics in the whole spectrum of bilateral relations ranging from politics and economy to culture, education and tourism. The country’s gigantic potential and its major role in international affairs, combined with its specific political system and cultural identity, requires a calibrated, in-depth approach in elaborating and implementing a strategic outlook on bilateral relations, while taking stock of the experience acquired so far. The strategy should take into consideration the needs and views of all stakeholders in the process of co-operation with China, e.g. central and local authorities, business and academic entities, social organizations and associations. On the other hand, it has to take into consideration the swift rise of China and its dynamic relationship with the rest of the world as well as feed into EU concepts and policies vis-à-vis China.