site.btaMinister of Regional Development and Public Works Opens Bulgarian Pavilion at 89th Thessaloniki International Fair

Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Ivan Ivanov opened the Bulgarian pavilion at the The 89th Thessaloniki International Fair, the line ministry said on Saturday. 

"We are connected to Greece not only by our proximity, but also by our partnership in a number of areas. These relations are even more important in view of one of the most significant events ahead for our country, the introduction of the euro," said Ivanov.

“The euro requires attention not only to the opportunities it offers, but also to the concerns of our fellow citizens,” the Regional Minister added, noting that it is important to learn from the experience of countries that have introduced the euro, including Greece, and that the forum in Thessaloniki provides exceptional opportunities to study this experience. “I believe that our countries can be a driving force for the Balkans to become the best place to live and invest,” Minister Ivanov added. He welcomed Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who chose to visit the Bulgarian pavilion.

Later, Minister Ivanov held a bilateral meeting with the Greek Minister of Development Panagiotis (Takis) Theodorikakos, where the two outlined opportunities for closer cooperation. The two ministers were adamant that the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria would improve the investment climate and facilitate economic relations. The conversation focused on the development of industrial zones in both countries and the absorption of European funds, including through cross-border cooperation, where Bulgaria and Greece have deep traditions.