A meeting dedicated to strengthening economic, cultural, and trade relations between Bulgaria and Sichuan Province-a dynamic region ranked fifth in China in terms of economic potential and known for its development in clean energy, hydropower, high technologies, and sustainable industries-was held at the Chinese Cultural Center in Sofia.
The event was opened by Mr. Chen Wei, Secretary-General of the Sichuan Provincial Association for Promotion of International Exchange among Non-Governmental Organizations. The program began with the screening of the promotional film “Striving Toward New Horizons,” highlighting the natural wealth and economic strength of the region.
A welcome address followed from Mr. Liu Jie, Vice Chairman of the Chinese Association for the Promotion of International Exchange. In his speech, he emphasized the philosophy of mutual learning, sharing, and cooperation embedded in the Belt and Road Initiative, and encouraged deeper exchanges in economics, science, culture, and social development. He underlined that Sichuan sees Bulgaria as a strategic bridge between Asia and Europe.
On behalf of InvestBulgaria Agency (IBA), Mr. Angel Ivanov, Acting Executive Director, delivered an official greeting, expressing appreciation to the hosts and highlighting the excellent bilateral relations in the field of investment. He noted that Bulgaria offers a favorable and predictable environment for international investors in high-tech industries such as automotive components, electronic communications, mechanical engineering, and advanced manufacturing technologies-making the country a natural and preferred partner for Chinese companies with global ambitions.
In his remarks, Mr. Ivanov stated:
“Cooperation between Bulgaria and Sichuan Province opens real opportunities in electronics, logistics, high technologies, culture, as well as in agricultural processing and value-added production. Chinese companies can expand their operations in Bulgaria as a reliable and strategic European hub for manufacturing, logistics, and distribution to the EU. Our country offers a predictable and favorable investment climate, a strategic location, low corporate taxes, a stable financial system, and a skilled workforce.”
Official attendees included:
Mr. Kong Linyu – Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China
Mrs. Desislava Doncheva – Chairwoman of the Bulgarian-Chinese Chamber for Industrial Development
Dr. Boyko Takov – Executive Director of BSMEPA
Representatives of Bulgarian institutions and academia
Companies from Sichuan Province, including Sichuan Development, Sichuan Energy Investment, Sichuan Changhong Jiaxipera Compressor, Wuliangye Group, and others
Chinese enterprises presented their portfolios, technological solutions, and interest in expanding their presence in Europe through partnerships with Bulgarian companies and institutions.
The event concluded with the shared message that Bulgaria and Sichuan will continue to work toward strengthening trade, cultural, and investment relations.
