In Search of Principles of Visegrad (Economic) Cooperation and its Inspiration for Bilateral Relations between North Macedonia and Bulgaria

Authors

  • Michal Vit Department of International Relations and European Studies, Metropolitan University Prague

Keywords:

V4, EU Enlargement, Bulgaria-North Macedonia Relations, Economic Cooperation, Europeanization, Cross-Border Collaboration

Abstract

This paper examines the economic cooperation within the Visegrád Four (V4) in the context of EU membership and its potential inspiration for bilateral relations between North Macedonia and Bulgaria. It explores the alignment of political values and economic relations in the V4, highlighting the EU’s role in fostering cross-border collaboration. The analysis delves into the shared priorities of the V4 towards EU enlargement and how these experiences can guide Western Balkan countries. It discusses the transformation of economic cooperation in the V4, emphasizing the strategic role of Germany and the evolution of regional dynamics. The paper also analyzes the challenges and limitations in applying the V4 model to Bulgarian-North Macedonian relations, considering the differences in historical experiences, economic convergence, and the impact of EU-driven Europeanization. It concludes by assessing the unique nature of bilateral relations in the context of EU integration and enlargement, emphasizing the need for a distinct approach for effective collaboration between Bulgaria and North Macedonia.

Author(s): Michal Vit

Title (English): In Search of Principles of Visegrad (Economic) Cooperation and its Inspiration for Bilateral Relations between North Macedonia and Bulgaria

Journal Reference: Identities: Journal for Politics, Gender and Culture, Vol. 20, No. 1-2 (2023).

Publisher: Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities - Skopje

Page Range: 32-39

Page Count: 8

Citation (English): Michal Vit, "In Search of Principles of Visegrad (Economic) Cooperation and its Inspiration for Bilateral Relations between North Macedonia and Bulgaria,” Identities: Journal for Politics, Gender and Culture, Vol. 20, No. 1-2 (2023): 32-39.

Author Biography

Michal Vit, Department of International Relations and European Studies, Metropolitan University Prague

Michal is an Assistant Professor at the Metropolitan University Prague. He obtained his doctorate in 2017. Previously he was associated with the Institute for European Policy (IEP), Berlin and EUROPEUM, Prague. He underwent research fellowships at University of Konstanz and University of Vienna, South East European University (MK). He cooperates as consultant with international organizations, such as OSCE.

Downloads

Published

2023-12-11

How to Cite

Vit, M. . (2023). In Search of Principles of Visegrad (Economic) Cooperation and its Inspiration for Bilateral Relations between North Macedonia and Bulgaria. Identities: Journal for Politics, Gender and Culture, 20(1-2), 32-39. Retrieved from https://identitiesjournal.edu.mk/index.php/IJPGC/article/view/527