The Christianization of Bulgaria was the process by which 9th-century medieval Bulgaria converted to Christianity. It was influenced by the Tsar's shifting political alliances with the kingdom of the East Franks and the Byzantine Empire, as well as his reception by the Pope. Because of Bulgaria's strategic position, both Rome and Constantinople churches wanted Bulgaria in their diocese. Christianization was considered a means of integrating Slavs into the region. After some overtures to each side, the khan adopted Christianity from Constantinople. Through them, he achieved his goal of gaining an independent Bulgarian national church and having an archbishop appointed to head it.