Bulgaria's caretaker government has launched the idea to open special stores for the poorest people in the country.

The idea has already been discussed at a meeting between caretaker Prime Minister, Marin Raykov, and representatives of the business, the Chairman of the Bulgarian Industrial Association, BIA, Bozhidar Danev, reported Saturday.

In these stores, the most disadvantaged Bulgarians would be able to purchase basic staples at preferential prices by showing a special card issued by the State.

The government press center informs the business had voiced readiness to be involved in making the initiative a reality.

The participants have discussed the business climate in the country, partnership between private companies and the caretaker Cabinet, and easing the access of the small and medium companies to EU funds.

Raykov has assured his government would work on reducing red tape for private enterprises.

On Thursday, the Cabinet slated BGN 41 M in assistance to the poor of which BGN 20 M would come from money for infrastructure. Former Regional Minister, Lilyana Pavlova, slammed the move, labeling it pure populism as it will inflict direct and indirect losses for the State budget.

According to Pavlova, the measure would reduce the real effect of the assistance because construction workers could face layoffs, meaning another 2 000 to 3 000 signing with the labor bureaus for unemployment assistance.

As soon as he took office, Raykov called on the business to show solidarity in difficult times.

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