Bulgaria and Greece share a common vision for economic growth and development. Our trade relations are stable, but have potential for development, especially in the fields of high technology, energy and logistics. This was stated by the Minister of Economy and Industry Petar Dilov in his welcome speech at the opening of the Bulgarian-Greek Business Forum with the participation of nearly 60 companies from both countries. The forum is organized by the Bulgarian-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
At the event, Petar Dilov discussed the prospects for economic growth and strengthening of trade and economic relations between Bulgaria and Greece with the Minister of Development of our southern neighbor Panagiotis Theodorikakos and the Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance of Greece Christos Dimas. The Deputy Prime Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria - Grozdan Karadjov and Tomislav Donchev also participated in the forum.
„We have a strategic partnership with Greece, which we must continue to develop. Investments in modern infrastructure, innovations and industrial cooperation will give an additional boost to bilateral economic relations,” said Minister Dilov.
He noted that for the period January – October 2024, bilateral trade is nearly 3.9 billion euros. “These data confirm the significant potential for growth that exists in economic cooperation between Bulgaria and Greece”, emphasized Minister Dilov. He added that Bulgaria is also an attractive investment destination for Greek business, with the amount of Greek investments in our country, according to BNB data, amounting to nearly 4 billion euros.
The Minister of Economy expressed confidence that Bulgaria's membership in the Schengen area will lead to a reduction in the time and costs of movement of goods and people between the two countries, facilitating trade and improving border, customs and tax control. He thanked Greece for its consistent support in Bulgaria's efforts to join Schengen and expressed hope that the Greek government and business will continue to support our country in its quest for membership in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
During the forum, key topics related to the deepening of economic cooperation between Bulgaria and Greece were discussed, including the development of industrial zones, the implementation of infrastructure projects and the improvement of connectivity between the two countries. The forum continued with business meetings between representatives of Bulgarian and Greek companies aimed at strengthening partnerships and implementing specific projects.