Bulgaria is willing to play a bridging role between China and the Balkans to strengthen cooperation and investment under the Belt and Road Initiative, said Iliana Iotova, who has just become the country's president.
Having served as vice president, Iotova became president after the former president resigned on January 23.
In an interview with China Media Group aired on Friday, Iotova emphasized the importance of deepening comprehensive ties and expanding bilateral investment.
"Bulgaria is a participating country of the Belt and Road Initiative. At this moment, we should seize the opportunity to pursue comprehensive cooperation and expand bilateral investment. I have learned that Chinese consumers are very interested in Bulgarian yogurt. It is a unique, high-quality product found nowhere else in the world. I have also learned that there is a strong interest in Bulgarian honey and agricultural products. Bulgaria is one of the countries with the cleanest natural environments in the world, and the high-quality agricultural products we produce deserve a place on the dining tables of people in both countries. Regrettably, the 21st century is facing immense challenges. Look at how difficult the world has become to live in -- so many conflicts, so many wars. People seem more eager to arm themselves than to think about the future of the next generation," she said.
Bulgaria vows to strengthen BRI ties with China
