The visit of BSP leader Atanas Zafirov to the military parade in Beijing stirred up the spirits in the Bulgarian political space. The urban right demanded his resignation, and accusations of “unacceptable closeness with authoritarian regimes“ appeared in the public space. The topic was commented on the air of “Offensive“ by BSP Deputy Chairman Ivan Takov.
“We have had traditional ties with the Chinese Communist Party for more than 76 years. However, in recent years, these relations have been somewhat forgotten. Zafirov's visit to Beijing strengthened both the party and economic ties between the two countries,“ Takov emphasized.
Takov emphasized that China is the second largest economy in the world and that a number of countries in the European Union maintain excellent economic relations with Beijing without causing such a fuss.
“Despite all the hysteria from people with obsessive-compulsive disorders, most European countries trade actively with China. Unfortunately, Bulgaria does not do this, and it is time“, he pointed out.
In response to demands from the urban right for Zafirov's resignation, Takov stated categorically: “We have not discussed the possibility of resignation“.
Takov defended participation in such events, regardless of the host country:“Personally, I would go anywhere where the millions of victims of World War II are honored. If I receive an invitation to a parade from Putin – of course I will go,“ he is categorical.
During the conversation, the topic of Bulgarian arms exports to Ukraine was also discussed. Takov recalled the words of Ursula von der Leyen, according to which 1/3 of Ukraine's weapons come from Bulgaria, but doubted the veracity of this statement: “If this were true, Bulgaria would be a very rich country at the moment”, he commented.