China-CEE Relations in a New Era: The Drivers behind the Development of the Platform for Regional Cooperation 16+1
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18046/recs.i37.5227Keywords:
16+1 Framework, China-CEE Relations, Historical Memory, Whole-Of-Region Diplomacy, Regional CooperationAbstract
Relations between China and the countries in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) experienced a rapid and profound deepening from 2009 to 2019, with the 16+1 regional platform for cooperation playing a central role. From the Chinese side, what are the motivations behind the establishment of 16+1? Through a literature review, the article identifies three sets of drivers: pragmatic, political, and historical. The increasing priority given by China to relations with the European Union is also leading to a shift in how the country understands and interacts with CEE, resulting in the Europeanization of 16+1.
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