Bulgarian-Greek relations are developing gradually, regardless of the government in power, Bulgaria's President, Georgi Parvanov, said after the meeting with his Greek counterpart, Karolos Papoulias.

"Greece is one of our main partners with regards to stock exchange and investments. We are pleased to announce that the recession has not lead to any serious disturbances in these relations. On the opposite, the tourist flow has increased both ways," Parvanov said.

He has expressed hope that the upcoming Bulgarian-Greek business forum will provide new ideas "that we will support."

"We shared a common opinion that the agreement on the South Stream gas pipeline project [from November 13] will be useful for both countries, as much as Greece is involved," the Bulgarian President said.

In his opinion, it is important for Bulgaria to activate the work on the gas pipeline Komotini-Dimitrovgrad-Stara Zagora and to construct a liquefied natural gas terminal, which are the pillars for reaching a diversification of the supplies for natural gas.

Parvanov also urged for intensification of the work on the border checkpoint Rudozem-Ksanti and the Makaza Pass.

He noted that the border checkpoint topic has become a good tradition in the talks between him and Papoulias.

On his part, the Greek President expressed his content with the bilateral cooperation between the two countries despite the difficult conditions.

He said he discussed with Parvanov the joining of the Western Balkans to the European Union and the ways in which the two countries could be of help.

Papoulias also stated that the Greek plan for Balkans reconstruction, for which Greece has granted EUR 18 M, is continuing implementation.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!