The “16+1” Format and the “New Hidden Wave of Sinophobia” in EU Cover Image

Форматът "16+1" и "новата скрита вълна на синофобия" в ЕС
The “16+1” Format and the “New Hidden Wave of Sinophobia” in EU

Author(s): Nako R. Stefanov
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, National Economy, Geopolitics
Published by: Великотърновски университет „Св. св. Кирил и Методий”
Keywords: The “16 + 1” format; the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE countries); the New Wave of “Sinophobia” in EU; the answer to the wave of “Sinophobia”

Summary/Abstract: Against the backdrop of the “One Belt, One Road” Initiative, the “16 + 1” format, fostering cooperation between China and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE countries), has become an important project. The striving and desire to interact on the base of the formula of equal co-operation (win-win development) promise favorable prospects. Unfortunately, however, in recent years there started a phenomenon within the EU, which we can definitely call a “New Wave of “Sinophobia”. Although so far it is hidden, this phenomenon is undoubtedly beginning to negatively affect the “16 + 1” format. In the report, we are trying to find out what the roots of this “New Wave of “Sinophobia” are? Another key objective is to think about what should be the response of this negative shadow on cooperation under the “16 + 1” format.