site.btaBulgarian-Greek Border Checkpoints Still Blocked

Bulgarian-Greek Border Checkpoints Still Blocked


Sofia, February 20 (BTA) - Bulgarian hauliers have been blocking the checkpoints on the border with Greece for the fifth day in a row on Saturday, making an exception only for cars with children or ill people. This move came in reaction to the continuing blockade by Greek farmers protesting against aplanned overhaul of the pension system.

Bulgaria is expected to state its demands at an informal meeting with Greek farmers: a lasting opening of the border and removal of all tractors blocking roads and border crossings.

If the Greek side accepts this proposal, the two countries' diplomats may meet to forge an agreement. Greek media have reported that Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras is to meet with representatives of the Greek farmers Monday noon.

Bulgaria's Ambassador in Athens, Emilia Kraleva, told Darik Radio that no ulterior motives should be sought behind Greece's blockade of Bulgaria because the borders with Macedonia, Albania and Turkey are also blocked. "We are the worst hit because traffic is heaviest," the Bulgarian diplomat said. There are  blockades on Crete Island and on Greek motorways as well.

Tourism Minister Nikolina Angelkova expressed a hope that Greece would solve the problem soon. She told Darik Radio that this was "an absurd situation." The Tourism Ministry had projected an increase in the number of Greek holidaymakers this winter, which will not materialize.

Talking to Bulgarian journalists at a European Council meeting in Brussels, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said: "I spared no effort to persuade the Greek Prime Minister to intervene more heavily." Talking with Tsipras again on Friday evening, Borissov was told that his counterpart might meet with farmers on Sunday. "I will refrain from further comment because they are our neighbours and we will live side by side for ages on end."