site.btaVice President and New Chinese Ambassador Discuss Bilateral Cooperation

May 13 (BTA) - Vice President Iliana Iotova and the new
Chinese Ambassador to Bulgaria, Dong Xiaojun, discussed ways to
promote bilateral cooperation, the President's press secretariat
 reported on Monday.

The sides underscored the steady bilateral contacts which have
been built on the basis of mutual respect and support.
Ambassador Dong praised Bulgaria's role in the "17+1" (formerly:
 16+1) format of cooperation between Central and Eastern
European countries and China, and in EU-China relations.

He and Iotova looked at the prospects of Chinese investment in
the Bulgarian economy. The Ambassador noted the increased
interest of Chinese companies in Bulgaria, which was visited by
over 300 business delegations last year. The two officials
concurred that it is necessary to provide incentives to achieve
tangible results.

Ambassador Dong said Bulgaria offers unique products such as
rose oil and excellent wine. Bulgarian yogurt is very popular in
 China. There are opportunities to expand Bulgarian exports to
China, he added.

Iotova highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in
Bulgaria-China relations and the need to deepen cultural
exchange. Dong thanked for Bulgaria's support for the successful
 functioning of the local offices of the Confucius Institute and
 said that Bulgarians are very interested in learning Chinese.
RY/VE