site.btaPM Borissov Discusses Kaliakra Case with Commissioner Vella

Sofia, August 7 (BTA) - Prime Minister Boyko Borissov talked over the phone with European Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella, the Council of Ministers' Press Service said. The two discussed the Kaliakra case. 

Minister of Environment and Waters Neno Dimov cancelled on Saturday an order of July 21, 2017 imposing bans on certain activities within the Kaliakra Complex protected area, which is a part of the Natura 2000 network. The order is being withdrawn following an order of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and mass protests of citizens of the municipalities of Kavarna, Shabla and Balchik.

The order imposed a total ban on farming, construction and fishing in properties falling into the Natura 2000 network of protected areas. According to the taboo list, people cannot plough fields, grow maize or sunflower, plant trees, and catch fish or mussels within 15 km off the coast.

Borissov familiarized Commissioner Vella with the development of the situation in Bulgaria after the issuing of Dimov's order. The two were unanimous that the Court of Justice judgement should be fulfilled. It was noted that the Bulgarian authorities should identify the appropriate measures and ways to do this. It was underscored that the European legislation regarding Natura 2000 does not prohibit economic activities, including agriculture, and possibilities will be sought to enforce the judgement while avoiding inflicting damage on the people in the region. 

The interlocutors noted that the European Commission and the Bulgarian Government maintain a good dialogue on the issue and make efforts to find an optimal compromise for the protection of nature and the interests of the local people.

Vella hailed the Prime Minister's efforts to organize a meeting of all stakeholders and find a solution. He also noted the good cooperation and the efforts of Minister Dimov.
  
Borissov invited Commissioner Vella and the European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Cretu to visit Bulgaria and get familiarized on the spot with the measures for safeguarding the protected areas.