Relations between China and Central Eastern European (CEE) countries remain strong but the 17+1 format probably needs to get revised.
Is the 17+1 format still relevant?
The Three Seas Initiative and the BRI in Europe
In Central Europe, the 3 Seas Initiative can be developed along the Belt and Road Initiative to support connectivity between Europe and China.
BRI in Europe during the Covid-19 crisis
Even if the BRI projects in Europe are slowing down because of Covid19 pandemic, a Sino-European partnership remains a priority for both parties.
Prime Minister Li Keqiang’s visit to Europe: new BRI projects in Eastern Europe
Li Keqiang participated in the 7th 16 + 1 Framework Heads of State Summit held in Sofia, Bulgaria. The 16 + 1 mechanism brings together China and sixteen states of Central and Eastern Europe and aims to strengthen relations between the two regions.
6th China Central and Eastern Europe Countries Summit
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang traveled to Budapest on November 27, 2017 to attend the 6th China- Central and Eastern European Countries summit. This meeting took place within the framework of the 16 + 1 cooperation which brings together sixteen countries