site.btaPrime Minister Borissov Urges Increased Chinese Investment in Bulgaria

Prime Minister Borissov Urges Increased Chinese Investment in Bulgaria

Sofia, October 16 (BTA) - The development of Bulgaria's trade and economic relations with China was among the highlights of a meeting between Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Sofia, the Cabinet's Press Service reported on Friday, the second and last day of Wang's official visit to Bulgaria.

Borissov and Wang expressed their shared desire to strengthen the comprehensive friendly partnership and cooperation between their countries.

The host said Bulgaria wishes to see increased Chinese investment in its economy, larger volumes and variety of Bulgarian products on the Chinese market and more vigorous bilateral tourist exchange.

The sides identified a number of areas of potential investment. The Chinese Foreign Minister singled out construction as one such domain. The two officials also see opportunities to deepen cooperation in agriculture, transport, culture, science and technology. They discussed the development of transport corridors along the New Silk Road in the framework of the One Belt, One Road initiative.

On behalf of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, the Foreign Minister invited Borissov to visit China. Borissov said he, too, wishes to meet with Premier Li to discuss concrete projects for practical cooperation.

He said Bulgaria would be glad to host the next meeting of government leaders of China and Central and Eastern Europe in the 16+1 format. According to Borissov, the 16+1 cooperation initiative is an important platform for expanding relations with China in all areas, effectively complementing EU-China relations.