https://www.mfa.bg/en/ Sat, 25 Apr 2026 01:56:05 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/47753 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/47753 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:27:32 +0300 On 17-18 April, the European Culture Street 2026 took place in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, under the motto “One Street, Many Stories”. The event was organized by the Delegation of the European Union to China, the EU Member States, and the governments of Zhejiang Province and Hangzhou. On 17-18 April, the European Culture Street 2026 took place in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, under the motto “One Street, Many Stories”. The event was organized by the Delegation of the European Union to China, the EU Member States, and the governments of Zhejiang Province and Hangzhou. The intensive program of the two-day event included a press conference by the EU Delegation for Chinese media; a group meeting between Mr. Liu Fei, member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee and CPC Secretary of Hangzhou, and the representatives of EU Member States, attended by Consul General Vladislav Spasov; the official opening of the event was marked with speeches by the member of the Leading Group of the Foreign Affairs Office of Zhejiang Province Mr. Xing Huidong, the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to China Matthias Lenz and the Ambassador of Cyprus to China Mrs. Koula Sophianou. Bulgaria participated in the cultural program with performances by Ms. Diane Gallardo de Tzanev (vocals) and the pianist Vladimir Tzanev. The exhibition of Bulgarian wines and cosmetic products with rose oil was organized at the pavilion presenting the EU-China Agreement on Geographical Indications by the Trade and Economic Consul Ms. Ivet Nikolova. Bulgaria tourism opportunities were presented at the Bulgarian stand together with cosmetic products with rose oil, yogurt with Bulgarian starter culture, food supplements, etc. Approximately 28 000 Chinese citizens visited the European Street of Culture 2026 in Hangzhou. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/47107 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/47107 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:00:56 +0200 The Bulgarian community in Shanghai celebrated the National Day of Bulgaria – March 3rd, at the Consulate General of Bulgaria. The Bulgarian community in Shanghai celebrated the National Day of Bulgaria – March 3rd, at the Consulate General of Bulgaria. Chinese friends of Bulgaria were also present, including prof. Tong Shijun – the Chancellor of New York University-Shanghai, Prof. Che Shengquan, Vice Dean of School of Design at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), Prof. He Donghang Director of the Research Center for Chinese Modernization at Fudan Institute for Advanced Study in Social Sciences, etc.  In his speech, the Consul General Vladislav Spasov underlined that March 3rd commemorates not only the victory on the battlefield, nor is it merely the date of an international treaty. March 3rd extends far beyond the specific events of the Russo-Turkish War of Liberation (1877-78) and is much more than a historical triumph. On this date, Bulgaria bows to the memory of all heroes who fought and gave their lives for its freedom. March 3rd is a symbol of our national ideal for a free, united, and European Bulgaria, exactly what our Motherland is today. Presently, Bulgaria is a democratic state, a worthy and full-fledged member of the European Union. This is the choice of our people and the most significant historical achievement of modern Bulgaria. During the event, Chinese citizens from the consular jurisdiction of the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai who had actively promoted Bulgaria-China relations in the past several years received letters of appreciation from the Consul General Vladislav Spasov. The recipients were Prof. Che Shengquan, Vice Dean of School of Design at SJTU and Ms. Chen Yi, a woman entrepreneur from Ningbo, Zhejiang province. Children from the Bulgarian community in Shanghai recited poems, and all the kids present received books from the series “In the Magical Forest” by Atanas Tsankov with illustrations by Antonina Babukchieva.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46624 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46624 Mon, 22 Dec 2025 08:42:49 +0200 On 22 December 2025 the Consul General of Bulgaria Vladislav Spasov visited the Research Center for Chinese Modernization at Fudan Institute for Advanced Study in Social Sciences.  On 22 December 2025 the Consul General of Bulgaria Vladislav Spasov visited the Research Center for Chinese Modernization at Fudan Institute for Advanced Study in Social Sciences.    The Consul General was received by the Director of the Research Center Prof. He Donghang, author of several books on issues related to Chinese modernization, including: “Theory and Practice of the Chinese-style Modernization” (2025), “China’s Path to Building a Modern State” (2021) and “Local Society, Governance and Economic Development” (2011). Prof. He Donghang presented to the Consul General the main historical stages of China’s modernization path since 1949, as well as one of the most vivid practical examples in this regard – the so-called “Jinjiang Experience” pertaining to the economic successes of Jinjiang, Quanzhou City in Fujian Province.   The other participants in the meeting included Prof. Lin Xi, assistant Dean of the Fudan Institute for Advanced Study in Social Sciences; Prof. Gu Yanfeng, a research fellow at the institute; and Prof. Su Sijin from the East China University of Science and Technology.   The two sides discussed opportunities for cooperation between Bulgarian research institutions and the Fudan Institute for Advanced Study in Social Sciences. They expressed interest in academic exchanges, joint conferences and publications. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46368 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46368 Fri, 28 Nov 2025 16:46:31 +0200 On November 26-27, 2025, the Consul General of Bulgaria Vladislav Spasov visited Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. He took part in a meeting of Consuls General from Shanghai with the Mayor of Nanjing Mr. Li Zhongjun. In his former capacity as Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Mr. Li Zhongjun visited Bulgaria on September 22-26, 2025. The Consul General reiterated to the Chinese host our country’s desire for further development of bilateral relations with Nanjing in the fields of economy, science, education, and culture. The Consul General attended the opening ceremony of the 10th World Intelligent Manufacturing Conference (November 27, 2025) and presented Bulgaria at the Jiangsu Enterprises Going Global (European Session) Salon. With the support of InvestBulgaria Agency and National Company Industrial Zones, he presented the advantages of Bulgaria as an investment destination to the attending officials of Jiangsu Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology, and approximately 70 Chinese companies.       https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46305 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46305 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:44:49 +0200 The Bulgarian national team participated at the 1st FAI World Drone Soccer Championship that took place from 15th to 18th November 2025 in Shanghai organized by the World Air Sports Federation (FAI). It was hosted by entities including the Aeronautics, Radio, Orienteering and Model Sports Administrative Center of General Administration of Sport of China, the Aero Sports Federation of China and the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Sports. 46 teams from 18 countries participated in the competition. The Bulgarian national team consisted of the team manager and player Anton Puliyski, the center defender Stoyan Yordanov, the gate keeper Yuliya Lazarkova and the striker Kristian Petrov. They competed at the F9A-B category (drone balls diameter 20 cm). There was also a Bulgarian referee – Sotir Lazarkov. The Bulgarian national team participated at the 1st FAI World Drone Soccer Championship that took place from 15th to 18th November 2025 in Shanghai organized by the World Air Sports Federation (FAI). It was hosted by entities including the Aeronautics, Radio, Orienteering and Model Sports Administrative Center of General Administration of Sport of China, the Aero Sports Federation of China and the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Sports. 46 teams from 18 countries participated in the competition. The Bulgarian national team consisted of the team manager and player Anton Puliyski, the center defender Stoyan Yordanov, the gate keeper Yuliya Lazarkova and the striker Kristian Petrov. They competed at the F9A-B category (drone balls diameter 20 cm). There was also a Bulgarian referee – Sotir Lazarkov. The Bulgarian national team was eliminated by a Chinese team that finished second at the tournament. Chinese teams secured first and second place in both competitions (using large and small drone balls), while the Republic of Korea won third place in both categories. Shanghai is the birthplace of aeromodelling sports in China. Drone soccer is an emerging tech-oriented sport. There is no gender separation, female athletes participate together with males. In China drone soccer is developed as a part of the low-altitude economy. The 1st FAI World Drone Soccer Championship marks Shanghai’s first hosting of the highest-level contest under the World Air Sports Federation after a hiatus of 31 years. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46216 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46216 Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:19:32 +0200 The 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) was held in Shanghai from November 5th to 10th, 2025. The event featured products from several prominent Bulgarian companies, including Bulgarian Rose-Karlovo, Biofresh, Royal Bees, Lab Nutrition, and Solvex. The 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) was held in Shanghai from November 5th to 10th, 2025. The event featured products from several prominent Bulgarian companies, including Bulgarian Rose-Karlovo, Biofresh, Royal Bees, Lab Nutrition, and Solvex. Bulgarian Rose-Karlovo which has maintained a Beijing office since 2010, has a long-standing presence in the market. Products by the other companies have been imported by Ningbo Di Jia Wei Da Trading Co. respectively: Biofresh since 2020, Royal Bees and Lab Nutrition since 2024, and Solvex since 2025. The Chinese company has expressed a strong interest in expanding its imports from Bulgaria. The 8th CIIE set new records, with 4,108 exhibitors occupying a combined exhibition area of 367,000 square meters. The event attracted the participation of 290 Fortune 500 companies. The Expo was visited by Bulgarian delegations that included representatives from the Ministry of Economy and Industry and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, as well as various Bulgarian business associations and media outlets. Furthermore, the Commercial and Economic Office of the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai, in cooperation with the Foreign Trade Working Committee of the China-Europe Association for Technical and Economic Cooperation and its Yunnan International Economic and Technological Communication Center, organized a business forum on November 10, 2025. The forum was attended by 32 Bulgarian representatives and 56 Chinese companies. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46139 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/46139 Mon, 03 Nov 2025 15:16:15 +0200 The University of National and World Economy (UNWE) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) established their relations in 2016. In 2019, the UNWE and SJTU signed a Dual Master’s Degree Program in International Business and Governance. Since then, their ties have developed steadily, and in order to continue building the momentum of bilateral exchanges, a delegation from UNWE visited SJTU on 31 October 2025. It consisted of the Rector of UNWE, Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, and the Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Assoc. Prof. Yanko Hristozov. They were accompanied by the Consul General of Bulgaria in Shanghai, Vladislav Spasov. The University of National and World Economy (UNWE) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) established their relations in 2016. In 2019, the UNWE and SJTU signed a Dual Master’s Degree Program in International Business and Governance. Since then, their ties have developed steadily, and in order to continue building the momentum of bilateral exchanges, a delegation from UNWE visited SJTU on 31 October 2025. It consisted of the Rector of UNWE, Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, and the Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Assoc. Prof. Yanko Hristozov. They were accompanied by the Consul General of Bulgaria in Shanghai, Vladislav Spasov. The Bulgarian side was received by the President of SJTU, Prof. Ding Kuiling. He was accompanied by the Director of the Division of Global Cooperation and Exchange, Prof. Yin Haitao; the President and Editor-in-Chief of Shanghai Jiao Tong University Press, Prof. Chen Huadong; the Vice Dean of the School of International and Public Affairs, Prof. Wei Yingjie; the Executive Director of the Bulgarian Center at SJTU, Prof. Che Shengquan; and the Postdoctoral Fellow of the School of Design, Researcher Qin Yifeng, among others. Both sides appreciated their current cooperation and explored opportunities for future educational collaboration and academic exchanges. SJTU donated to UNWE more than sixty books in the area of humanities. The delegation also visited New York University – Shanghai and met with the Chancellor, Prof. Tong Shijun, and the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ding Shuzhe. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/45779 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/45779 Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:27:06 +0300 The 5th Hangzhou Triennial of Fiber Art was inaugurated on September 23, 2025 in the capital of Zhejiang province under the theme “Re-Constellations”. Among its curators is the Bulgarian artist Assadour Markarov, a professor at the Department of Fiber Art at the China Academy of Art (CAA) in Hangzhou. The event features 45 artists from 17 countries, including the Bulgarian artist Gergana Tabakova with her work “Shifting Horizons”. The 5th Hangzhou Triennial of Fiber Art was inaugurated on September 23, 2025 in the capital of Zhejiang province under the theme “Re-Constellations”. Among its curators is the Bulgarian artist Assadour Markarov, a professor at the Department of Fiber Art at the China Academy of Art (CAA) in Hangzhou. The event features 45 artists from 17 countries, including the Bulgarian artist Gergana Tabakova with her work “Shifting Horizons”. The cultural exchange between Bulgaria and China in the field of fiber art has spun for nearly four decades, a significance highlighted by the CAA President Mr. Yu Xuhong during the opening ceremony. He noted that around 1985, the distinguished Bulgarian artist Maryn Varbanov initiated a new chapter in experimental art at the CAA and as a result the Varbanov Tapestry Art Research Centre was established at the academy in 1986. Under the Bulgarian master’s guidance his Chinese students, including prominent artists such as Shi Hui, Zhu Wei, Gu Wenda, and Liang Shaoji created groundbreaking artworks, carrying forward Varbanov’s legacy. In 1989, the Varbanov Tapestry Art Research Centre was recognized by the Chinese Ministry of Culture as the nation’s first institution dedicated to teaching and creation in the field of contemporary fiber art. In 2003, the Centre merged with the CAA’s Department of Sculpture to form the Fiber and Space Art Studio, integrating fiber art directly with plastic arts and transforming it from a singular art form into a comprehensive field of artistic expression. Since 2013, the Hangzhou Triennial of Fiber Art has continued to embody Varbanov’s philosophical vision of “weaving the world”, focusing on the unique realm of fiber and significantly expanding the boundaries and depth of sculptural art, showcasing Hangzhou’s distinctive artistic perspective.     The works of the 5th Hangzhou Triennial of Fiber Art are displayed at the Zhejiang Art Museum and open to the public until November 2, 2025. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/45720 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/45720 Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:24:16 +0300 On September 16, 2025, the Bulgarian-Chinese exhibition “The Universe on Paper” was inaugurated in Wuhu City, Anhui Province. The event is part of a bilateral cultural exchange project, the first phase of which was the Bulgarian-Chinese exhibition held in Levski Municipality from June 7 to July 13, 2025 and included a visit by Chinese artists to Bulgaria. The organizers of “The Universe on Paper” (September 16-25, 2025) from Chinese side are the Beijing International Cultural Trade Promotion Association and the Wuhu Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism. The initiative was supported by the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai. On September 16, 2025, the Bulgarian-Chinese exhibition “The Universe on Paper” was inaugurated in Wuhu City, Anhui Province. The event is part of a bilateral cultural exchange project, the first phase of which was the Bulgarian-Chinese exhibition held in Levski Municipality from June 7 to July 13, 2025 and included a visit by Chinese artists to Bulgaria. The organizers of “The Universe on Paper” (September 16-25, 2025) from Chinese side are the Beijing International Cultural Trade Promotion Association and the Wuhu Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism. The initiative was supported by the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai. The Bulgarian and European artists featured in the exhibition include: sculptors Snejana Simeonova and Todor Todorov; Daniela Todorova – paper art; visual artist Stefan Gadzhovski; photographer Violetta Apostolova; visual artist Stoyan Todorov; and contemporary artists Phenix Varbanov and Bruno Georges David. The former Deputy Minister of Culture Vessela Kondakova was also present. Participating from Chinese side are: Xiao Huang, President of the International Culture & Art Committee of Beijing Association for Cultural Trade; Wu Xiaoming, Chairman of the Wuhu Artists Association; Prof. Jiang Zhuqing (Tsinghua University); representatives from the Central Academy of Fine Arts (Beijing) – Prof. Tang Chenghua, Prof. Zhou Jirong, and Li Qiang; Yang Hong (China Cultural Development Promotion Association); Prof. Li Hongbo (Jilin Normal University); Zhang Wei (Shanxi Artists Association); Hu Yi, Director of the Jiujiang Art Museum; and artists Tian Wei and Zhang Hongbin. In his address to the attendees, Consul General Vladislav Spasov praised the exhibition as an excellent opportunity for artistic, intellectual, and spiritual dialogue between creators from Bulgaria and China. He also noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the European Union and China, and that the participation of internationally renowned artists from Bulgaria, France, and China in “The Universe on Paper” commemorates the artistic dialogue between our country, as an EU Member State, and China. Holding the “The Universe on Paper” exhibition in Anhui Province carries profound significance due to the province’s millennia-old connection with the production and artistry of Xuan paper, also known as rice paper. During their visit, the Bulgarian artists also visited The Yellow Mountain (Huangshan), a site inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List (1990). It gives its name to the Huangshan Painting School, which flourished in the 17th century. The encounter with the unique landscapes and the opportunity to participate in a practical art workshop in the mountain provided the Bulgarian guests with a deeper aesthetic understanding of Chinese culture.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/45648 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/45648 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:29:50 +0300 The 2025 China-CEEC Conference on Industry-University-Research Cooperation and Exchange took place in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province on September 12th, 2025. The 2025 China-CEEC Conference on Industry-University-Research Cooperation and Exchange took place in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province on September 12th, 2025. Attendees from the Chinese side included the Vice Governor of Jiangsu Provincial People’s Government, Mr. Zhao Yan; the Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation of the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Ms. Wang Xiao; and the Director-General of the Department of Science and Technology of Jiangsu Province, Mr. Xu Guanghui. In his speech, the Consul General Vladislav Spasov pointed out that numerous bilateral cooperation and mobility projects between Bulgaria and China were implemented in the fields of astronomy, biology, microbiology, engineering chemistry, organic chemistry, metallurgy, geodesy, and economics. The total funding for these projects amounted to approximately one million euros. By the end of this year, another call for bilateral projects will be announced by the Fund for Scientific Research at the Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria. The participants from the Chinese side appreciated the role of Central and Eastern European Countries as important partners for China in science and technology. They underlined the importance of the China-CEEC Technology Transfer Center (Jiangsu S&T Exchange Center with Foreign Countries) and confirmed China’s unwavering commitment to the reform and opening up policy. During the conference, New Bulgarian University and Jiangsu Weiteli Motor Co. Ltd. expressed their intentions to work together on a project for the Joint Research and Development of a High Power Density Permanent Magnet Synchronous Drive Motor System. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/44883 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/44883 Fri, 30 May 2025 14:31:04 +0300 The Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and of Slavic Literature was celebrated on May 24, 2025 in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province as part of the 4th China-Central and Eastern European Countries Expo. The Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and of Slavic Literature was celebrated on May 24, 2025 in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province as part of the 4th China-Central and Eastern European Countries Expo. The event titled “Discover Bulgaria Through Its Letters,” began with a performance of “One Bulgarian Rose” by Mrs. Diane Gallardo de Tzanev and the traditional offering of bread and salt to the guests. The Consul General Vladislav Spasov addressed the attendees, speaking about the significance of over 60 years of Bulgarian language teaching at Beijing Foreign Studies University and the recent expansion of Bulgarian language programs to Beijing International Studies University, Hebei International Studies University, Tianjin Foreign Studies University, and Guangdong University of Foreign Studies. He emphasized that the knowledge of Bulgarian language and culture in China fosters people-to-people exchanges, trust, and mutual understanding between the two countries. Greetings on the occasion were also delivered by Ms. Ge Lina, Director of the China Cultural Center in Sofia, who is about to take up her post in Bulgaria’s capital, and Ms. Nina Kaloyanova, Secretary of the Municipal Administration of Chelopech. Ms. Kaloyanova spoke about the significance of the Bulgarian alphabet. She highly appreciated the opportunity to acquaint Ningbo with the beauty of Bulgarian folklore dance and music, and expressed the desire to continue cultural exchanges and cooperation between Chelopech Municipality and its Chinese counterparts. The event continued with performances by dancers from the folk ensemble “Bulgarche” and singers from the vocal group “Srednogorski Zvun” (Chelopech Municipality), as well as piano performances by Mr. Vladimir Tzanev, Ms. Evgenia Goranova-Bermudez, and the 9-year-old Chinese musician Mi Zijing. The celebration ended in a very Bulgarian manner – all attendees joined the traditional horo dance.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/44861 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/44861 Fri, 30 May 2025 09:50:50 +0300 On 21 May 2025, Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov held a meeting in Shanghai with the city’s Mayor, Gong Zheng. During the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed his admiration for Shanghai’s achievements. He highlighted the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and China celebrated in 2024, the Sister Cities Agreement signed between Sofia and Shanghai in 2016, and the elevation of Bulgarian-Chinese relations to a strategic partnership in 2019. Deputy Prime Minister Zafirov commended the active parliamentary exchanges in recent years and expressed a desire to further expand and deepen the dialogue. On 21 May 2025, Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov held a meeting in Shanghai with the city’s Mayor, Gong Zheng. During the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed his admiration for Shanghai’s achievements. He highlighted the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and China celebrated in 2024, the Sister Cities Agreement signed between Sofia and Shanghai in 2016, and the elevation of Bulgarian-Chinese relations to a strategic partnership in 2019. Deputy Prime Minister Zafirov commended the active parliamentary exchanges in recent years and expressed a desire to further expand and deepen the dialogue. Deputy Prime Minister Zafirov emphasized Bulgaria’s commitment to balancing bilateral trade and increasing Bulgarian exports to China, as well as ensuring easier access for Bulgarian products and services to the Chinese market. He noted Bulgaria’s interest in attracting Chinese investments and further developing tourism ties. Another key priority for Bulgaria is the establishment of a direct flight route to China, alongside the development of railway and road transport links between the two countries. He acknowledged the potential for further cooperation in logistics, trade, investments, high technology, innovation, agriculture, tourism, and education. For his part, Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng provided an overview of the city’s economic and social development, aimed at building an internationally significant metropolis. Shanghai is focused on strengthening its position as a global hub in five areas, including: International Economic Center – in 2024, the city’s GDP reached 5.4 trillion yuan (approx. USD 750 billion); International Financial Center – on par with Hong Kong; International Trade Center – in 2024, Shanghai’s total foreign trade volume amounted to 4.27 trillion yuan; International Transport Hub – for the 15th consecutive year, Shanghai Port ranked first globally in cargo throughput (51.5 million TEUs in 2024); International Sci-Tech Innovation Center – 4.4% of Shanghai’s GDP is invested in R&D, with 11% allocated to fundamental research. For the second year in a row, Shanghai ranked 5th in the World Intellectual Property Organization’s global ranking of top technology clusters. Mayor Gong Zheng also praised the long-standing friendship between Bulgaria and China and the successful cooperation between the sister cities of Sofia and Shanghai in trade, culture, and urban development. Both sides expressed a shared commitment to further strengthening Bulgaria-China relations at both national and local levels. From Bulgarian side the meeting was also attended by the Minister of Environment and Water Manol Genov, Bulgarian Ambassador to China Andrey Tehov, and Consul General in Shanghai Vladislav Spasov. Mayor Gong Zheng was accompanied by Chief Secretary of the Shanghai Municipal Government Ma Chunlei, Director of the Shanghai Foreign Affairs Office Ms. Ma Yinghuai, and her Deputy Ms. Ye Liang. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/44855 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/44855 Thu, 29 May 2025 15:18:50 +0300 From May 21 to 25, 2025, the 4th China-Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) Expo and International Consumer Goods Fair were held in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, alongside numerous accompanying events. From May 21 to 25, 2025, the 4th China-Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) Expo and International Consumer Goods Fair were held in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, alongside numerous accompanying events. The Bulgarian delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov and included Bulgarian Ambassador to China Andrey Tehov, Minister of Agriculture and Food Georgi Tahov, Minister of Environment and Water Manol Genov, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Lozana Vasileva, and Consul General in Shanghai Vladislav Spasov. During the expo, Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov delivered a speech at the 9th China-CEEC Business Council Meeting (May 21, 2025). He highly praised the Bulgarian-Chinese relations, elevated to a strategic partnership in 2019. He noted that over the 75-year history of diplomatic relations, the ties between the two countries have been rich and diverse across all fields, always based on mutual friendship, goodwill, and respect. He highlighted that Bulgaria has been a traditional participant in the China-CEEC Expo in Ningbo, which has grown into one of the most important forums for fostering cooperation between China and CEEC countries. Each year, the expo expands, deepening engagement in trade, investments, local governance, and scientific-technological exchange. Bulgaria sincerely wishes to further develop relations with China based on balance, reciprocity, and equal treatment. A key priority for Bulgaria is boosting trade, accelerating and simplifying approval procedures for the export of Bulgarian agricultural and food products to China, and facilitating broader access for Bulgarian goods to the Chinese market. Minister Georgi Tahov spoke at the opening of the 7th China-CEEC Customs Inspection and Quarantine Cooperation Dialogue (May 22, 2025). He highlighted the active cooperation between Bulgaria’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food, the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency, and China’s General Administration of Customs in finalizing protocols for the import requirements of several Bulgarian agricultural and food products to China. Under the China-CEEC Cooperation Initiative, Bulgaria hosts the Association for the Promotion of Agricultural Cooperation between China and the CEEC (APACCCEEC), which has proven to be a key instrument in boosting agricultural and food trade. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food APACCCEEC supports and facilitates the participation of Bulgarian and other CEEC companies from the agri-food sector in exhibitions and fairs across China. At the 4th China-CEEC Expo, the APACCCEEC stand showcased products from 12 companies from Bulgaria, Hungary, and Slovenia. During the visit of Minister Tahov, a protocol on phytosanitary requirements for Bulgarian saffron exports to China was signed. At an opening ceremony the new Permanent Pavilion exhibiting goods from CEEC and a liaison office of the APACCCEEC were inaugurated in Ningbo. The Bulgarian Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency and APACCCEEC, with the support of the Bulgarian Consulate General in Shanghai, organized the participation of various Bulgarian companies in the expo. They presented products from our cosmetic industry (including rose oil and herbal products), food and beverages (wine, beer, juice, herbal drinks, honey, protein bars, sweets, yogurt, and dietary supplements) and cultural and tourism products. Chinese traders offered a variety of Bulgarian products for sale. Representatives from the Bulgarian municipalities of Elin Pelin, Kyustendil, and Ruse took part in the China-CEEC Mayors’ Meeting (May 23, 2025). Dancers from the Folklore Ensemble “Bulgarché” and singers from the “Srednogorski Zvun” vocal group (Chelopech Municipality) performed daily, introducing Bulgarian culture through its folk songs and dances. Their stay in Ningbo was led by Mrs. Nina Kaloyanova, Secretary of the Chelopech Municipal Administration.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43885 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43885 Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:12:54 +0200 The National Day of Bulgaria – March 3rd was celebrated in the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai on February 28th, 2025. Compatriots from the Bulgarian community in Shanghai, Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces, together with Chinese friends of Bulgaria and Chinese married to Bulgarians, joined the commemoration. The National Day of Bulgaria – March 3rd was celebrated in the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai on February 28th, 2025. Compatriots from the Bulgarian community in Shanghai, Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces, together with Chinese friends of Bulgaria and Chinese married to Bulgarians, joined the commemoration.  In his speech the Consul General Vladislav Spasov expressed his respect for the deeds of Botev and Levski and paid tribute to the heroes who gave their lives for the freedom of Bulgaria. He stressed on the need for preserving Bulgarian national spirit and consciousness, and appreciated the contribution of Bulgarians in the Yangzi River Delta for portraying the positive image of Bulgaria in China. The support of two Chinese citizens – Ms. Huang Jie and Ms. Tang Jiaojiao – for the Consulate’s activities was recognized by presenting them with the recently translated in Chinese “The Physics of Sorrow” by Georgi Gospodinov. All guests received Martenitsas on the occasion of the first day of the spring – Baba Marta’s Day.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43821 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43821 Thu, 27 Feb 2025 10:22:29 +0200 On 25 February 2025 the Consul General of Bulgaria Vladislav Spasov visited the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS). There he met Prof. Yao Jianlong, Deputy Secretary of SASS CPC Committee and Director of the Institute of Law. On 25 February 2025 the Consul General of Bulgaria Vladislav Spasov visited the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS). There he met Prof. Yao Jianlong, Deputy Secretary of SASS CPC Committee and Director of the Institute of Law. Prof. Yao Jianlong presented the SASS – the oldest institution for humanities and social sciences of the Peoples’ Republic of China and the largest one outside the capital Beijing. It covers an area of more than 73 000 square meters and has 17 specialized institutes. SASS currently employs 680 researchers, including 146 professors and 214 associate professors. There are 800 students in master’s and doctoral programs in the SASS. It publishes 15 periodicals.    The Consul General presented to the Chinese side the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS). He paid special attention to the Institute for the State and the Law with its Center for Contemporary China Studies and the Institute of Philosophy and Sociology of BAS. He expressed willingness to develop relations between the BAS and the SASS. Later the Consul General discussed with Prof. Jiang Youfu, Director of the Institute of Chinese Marxism Studies of SASS, issues related to the Socialism with Chinese Characteristics in the New Era.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43648 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43648 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:27:50 +0200  On 10 February 2025, the Consul General Vladislav Spasov met the Chancellor of New York University-Shanghai prof. Tong Shijun. They exchanged opinions about the developments of humanitarian studies in Bulgaria and China and discussed opportunities for future cooperation.  On 10 February 2025, the Consul General Vladislav Spasov met the Chancellor of New York University-Shanghai prof. Tong Shijun. They exchanged opinions about the developments of humanitarian studies in Bulgaria and China and discussed opportunities for future cooperation. NYU Shanghai is China’s first Sino-USA research university. It was established in 2012 by New York University and East China Normal University (ECNU) with the support of the city of Shanghai and the district of Pudong. 2 000 students study at NYU Shanghai, half of whom are from China. Students from the United States and 70 other countries (including 2 students from Bulgaria) comprise the other half. Prof. Tong Shijun was Chair of ECNU’s Department of Philosophy from 1995-1997, Deputy Dean of Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS) from 2004-2011, Director of the Philosophical Institute of SASS from 2009-2011, and ECNU’s University Council Chairman from 2011-2019. He became Chancellor of NYU Shanghai in 2020. He has authored more than 10 books and over 100 papers, mainly in Chinese and English. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43275 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/43275 Wed, 18 Dec 2024 15:34:19 +0200 The Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai launched its official WeChat/Weixin Account in October 2024. The name of the account is CGofBulgaria. There, people can find relevant information regarding the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai including contact information, working hours, as well as answers to the most frequently asked visa questions. The Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai launched its official WeChat/Weixin Account in October 2024. The name of the account is CGofBulgaria. There, people can find relevant information regarding the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai including contact information, working hours, as well as answers to the most frequently asked visa questions.  The account also provides information about activities of the Consulate General and advertising materials popularizing Bulgaria as a diverse tourism, culture and business destination. The newly-uploaded features include the videos presenting the Photo Exhibition “The beauty of Bulgaria” held in October at People’s Square subway station in Shanghai: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/Egha6JNAXEBgwE-jdojHDA and the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the People’s Republic of China: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/zPmefb7FzyWqGbJMT5LD3A. The videos were realised under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diplomatic and Consular Missions of Bulgaria “Plan-program of activities in the field of public, cultural and digital diplomacy and strategic communications for 2024” with the kind support of the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) that procured the accompanying music to the videos – “Plovdiv suite”, composed by Dimitar Hristov and performed by the Bulgarian National Radio Folk Orchestra with conductor Dimitar Hristov and producer BNR. Users of the WeChat/Weixin platform can scan the QR code in the photo and follow the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai on the most popular social networking platform in China. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/42831 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/42831 Thu, 07 Nov 2024 14:41:21 +0200 The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE-2024) is taking place in Shanghai from 5th to 10th November 2024. In the Food and Agricultural Products area Chinese importers of Bulgarian goods exhibit products of the Bulgarian companies Biofresh, Bulgarian Rose-Karlovo and others. The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE-2024) is taking place in Shanghai from 5th to 10th November 2024. In the Food and Agricultural Products area Chinese importers of Bulgarian goods exhibit products of the Bulgarian companies Biofresh, Bulgarian Rose-Karlovo and others. During the CIIE-2024 the Consul General Vladislav Spasov participated at the Eco-Agriculture and Food Safety Forum organized by the State Administration for Market Regulation. He presented the history of essential rose oil production in Bulgaria, the Institute of Roses and Essential Oil Crops located in Kazanlak, as well as the demand for Bulgarian rose oil on the international market. At the invitation of the Ningbo Municipal People’s Government, the Consul General participated at the Dialogue on China-CEEC Digital Economic and Trade Cooperation. Representatives of the Department of European Affairs of the Ministry of Commerce of China, the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Commerce and other Central and Eastern European Countries also participated at the Dialogue. According to the organizers of CIIE-2024, the 7th CIIE has attracted 3 496 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions. 297 of the represented companies are part of the Fortune Global 500 list. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/42738 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/42738 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 16:16:51 +0200 Оn 25 October 2024, the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai organized a meeting between the Bulgarian community and the writer Zornitsa Garkova. The event was dedicated to 1st November – the National Awakeners’ Day and took place in the only restaurant in China that offers Bulgarian cuisine – Vanca’s. Оn 25 October 2024, the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Shanghai organized a meeting between the Bulgarian community and the writer Zornitsa Garkova. The event was dedicated to 1st November – the National Awakeners’ Day and took place in the only restaurant in China that offers Bulgarian cuisine – Vanca’s.  The Consul General of Bulgaria in Shanghai Vladislav Spasov recalled the words of Vassil Drumev that “a nation that preserves its consciousness, culture, writing and science will certainly have a bright and lasting future”. He presented the author Ms. Zornitsa Garkova and her short story collections The way of the ants (2013) and They never tell (2019). Ms. Zornitsa Garkova shared with our compatriots her experiences as a writer and a journalist at the BNR Hristo Botev program. She spoke about the creative writing of short stories and longer texts as well as her genre preferences. The author read a passage from her short story Model of the sea, answered questions and had friendly discussions with our compatriots. Ms. Zornitsa Garkova has visited Shanghai together with six other foreign writers from different continents at the invitation of Shanghai Writers’ Association for participation at the annual Shanghai Writing Program. The Chinese hosts organized several literary events for the foreign and Chinese writers aiming to introduce them to the people of Shanghai. https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/42608 https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassies/chinagc/news/42608 Fri, 11 Oct 2024 16:01:28 +0300 On 10th October 2024 the Consulate General of Bulgaria organized a commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the People’s Republic of China at the Musical corner of People’s Square subway station in Shanghai. The event was attended by the Vice President of Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (SPAFFC) Mr. Fu Jihong, the Deputy Director of Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism Mr. Jin Lei, the Deputy Secretary of the CPC Committee of Shanghai Shentong Metro Group Mr. Ge Shi Pin, Chinese and Bulgarian citizens. On 10th October 2024 the Consulate General of Bulgaria organized a commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the People’s Republic of China at the Musical corner of People’s Square subway station in Shanghai. The event was attended by the Vice President of Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (SPAFFC) Mr. Fu Jihong, the Deputy Director of Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism Mr. Jin Lei, the Deputy Secretary of the CPC Committee of Shanghai Shentong Metro Group Mr. Ge Shi Pin, Chinese and Bulgarian citizens. In his speech the Consul General Vladislav Spasov congratulated the People’s Republic of China on the occasion of its 75th anniversary, recalled the history of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations and their elevation to the current level of strategic partnership. He spoke about the sistership between Sofia and Shanghai and underlined the efforts of the Consulate General to further develop the ties between Bulgaria and Shanghai which is the second most important Chinese metropolis. The Shanghai Government has been successfully constructing it as an international economic, financial, trade, shipping, and science and technology innovation center. The Vice President of SPAFFC Mr. Fu Jihong recalled the traditional friendship between Bulgaria and China based on mutual trust and respect, as well as the development of bilateral ties in the areas of economy, culture and education. He highlighted the fruitful cooperation between the local authorities of Shanghai and Sofia conducted in areas such as municipal planning, youth exchanges and districts ties. He reconfirmed that SPAFFC will continue to play an active role for the promotion of friendly people-to-people exchanges between Bulgaria and China. The 75th anniversary of bilateral relations was celebrated with piano performances of Bulgarian composers’ music by Mr. Vladimir Tzanev and Ms. Evgenia Goranova-Bermudez – graduates of the National Academy of Music “Prof. Pantcho Vladigerov” and the Academy of Music, Dance and Visual Arts “Prof. Asen Diamandiev” – Plovdiv respectively, and the 9-year old Chinese musician Mi Zijing. The Bulgarian and Chinese audience admired the vocal performances of “One Bulgarian Rose” and the popular Chinese folksong “Mo Li Hua” by Mrs. Diane Gallardo de Tzanev. The event was marked by the official opening of a photo exhibition presenting the beauty of Bulgaria. The aim of the Consulate General is to bring Bulgaria closer to Shanghai and its 25 million citizens. The photo exhibition was realized under the Plan-program of activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad in the field of public, cultural and digital diplomacy and strategic communications for 2024. The exhibition is located at the People’s Square subway station which is the biggest central station of the Shanghai metro network, transfer hub of three metro lines, located in downtown Shanghai. The passenger flow is estimated to 300 000 people daily. The exhibition will be in display till 22 October 2024.