site.btaDeputy Parliament Chair Ganev in China: Bulgaria Could Become Strategic Gateway to European Market

Bulgaria has the unique opportunity to transform from a transit country into a strategic gateway to the European market, Tsoncho Ganev, National Assembly Deputy Chair and Deputy Chairperson of the Vazrazhdane party, said at the Second China-Europe Railway Express Cooperation Forum, themed "Connecting Asia and Europe for a Shared Future," held in Xi'an, the capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Vazrazhdane’s press center announced on Wednesday.

“The China-Europe express railway is the lifeline of the modern global economy and one of the pillars of the Belt and Road Initiative,” the press release quoted Ganev as saying. The China-Europe express railway offers a uniquely balanced solution between speed, price, and ecology. Compared to sea transport, which takes 35-45 days, trains reach their destination in only half the time – 15-20 days, Ganev said, adding that “Bulgaria's great strength lies not only in its railway network, but also in its ability to integrate it with other modes of transport.”

According to him, the two key Black Sea ports of Burgas and Varna can become powerful international centres. “The port of Burgas, as the terminus of the Sofia-Plovdiv-Burgas railway and part of Pan-European Transport Corridor 8, holds an extremely important place,” Ganev added. He noted Plovdiv's location, which makes it an ideal candidate for a large land-based logistics park. Sofia Airport could be added to the chain for goods requiring fast delivery, offering a comprehensive logistics solution, Ganev said.