What are the factors behind the successful EU-China cooperation on the subnational level? Case study of the Lodzkie region in Poland
Streszczenie
Analysing the relations between the EU and China one can notice a growing network of
links on all levels, including subnational. Within the framework of the One Belt One
Road (OBOR) Initiative Chinese regions are eager to develop contacts with European
counterparts. The case of the Lodzkie region’s (Poland) cooperation with Sichuan
Province is often presented in media as a flagship example of taking the advantage
of the possibilities posed by the OBOR. The direct cargo train connection with China
has been accompanied by close political relations on the regional level as well as
academic cooperation. Neither distance nor great asymmetries between the partners
impede smooth collaboration in the Lodzkie case. The main aim of this paper is to
answer the question what are the factors behind the success of the Lodzkie region in
order to recognise the conditions that may play an important role in the process of
building strong bilateral links between European and Chinese subnational units. The
Lodzkie case clearly shows the key role of the personal factor. Politicians and officials
have identified a great potential in a small-scale business initiative and have helped it to
enhance in cooperation with local stakeholders (the city authorities, academia, local
companies). Moreover, they have been able to create an attractive story which appeals
to international media and attracts business.
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