China’s Quiet Strategy in Bulgaria: Economic Appeal, Political Constraints (Asya Metodieva, Dimitar Keranov- German Marshall Fund of the United States)

Bulgaria presents an opportunity for China to increase its presence and pursue its strategic interests in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). China’s engagement with the country is so far limited, though, compared to that with Hungary and Serbia. Sofia views China’s economic footprint as key but security and soft-power dimensions are increasingly relevant. Public opinion has become more favorable toward China, not seeing it as a threat. It mixes admiration for Beijing’s economic achievements and skepticism about it as an alternative to an EU orientation.

China’s Quiet Strategy in Bulgaria: Economic Appeal, Political Constraints | German Marshall Fund of the United States