The Economy Minister Discusses Intensifying Bilateral Relations with the Greek Minister of Development and Deputy Minister of the Economy and Finance
Bulgaria and Greece share a common vision for economic growth and development. Our trade ties are solid, but there is potential for growth, particularly in the areas of high-tech, energy and logistics. This was said by Minister of Economy and Industry Peter Dilov in his opening remarks at the Bulgaria-Greece Business Forum, which brought together nearly 60 companies from both countries. The event was organised by the Bulgarian-Greek Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
During the forum, Dilov discussed prospects for economic growth and the strengthening of trade and economic relations between Bulgaria and Greece with the Minister of Development of the neighbouring country, Panagiotis Theodorikakos, and the Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance Christos Dimas. Deputy Prime Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria, Grozdan Karadjov and Tomislav Donchev, also took part in the event.
“We have a strategic partnership with Greece that we need to keep developing. Investment in modern infrastructure, innovations and industrial cooperation will give fresh momentum to bilateral economic relations,” Dilov said.
He noted that between January and October 2024, bilateral trade was nearly EUR 3.9 billion. “These figures confirm the considerable potential for growth in economic cooperation between Bulgaria and Greece,” Dilov stressed. He added that Bulgaria is an attractive investment destination for Greek businesses, with Greek investments in Bulgaria amounting to close to EUR 4 billion, according to central bank data.
The Economy Minister expressed confidence that Bulgaria’s membership in the Schengen Area would reduce the time and costs for the movement of goods and people between the two countries, thus facilitating trade and improving border, customs and tax control. He thanked Greece for its consistent support in Bulgaria’s efforts to join Schengen and voiced hope that the Greek government and business community would continue supporting Bulgaria in its quest for membership in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Key topics discussed at the forum included strengthening economic cooperation between Bulgaria and Greece, such as the development of industrial zones, the implementation of infrastructure projects, and improvements in connectivity between the two countries. The event concluded with business meetings between Bulgarian and Greek companies, aimed at consolidating partnerships and realising specific projects.