Turkey’s Energy Ambitions in the Balkans Grow with Key Deals with Bulgaria and Romania
Turkey is advancing its energy strategy in the Balkans with new agreements aimed at deepening its influence in the region
In a move to address economic concerns and improve the standard of living for workers, the Greek government is set to increase the minimum wage by approximately 5%, raising it from the current 780 euros to a range of 820-830 euros. The Minister of Labor and Social Development, Domna Michailidou, has expressed her commitment to introducing an amendment to expedite the process, with the new rates expected to come into effect on April 1.
The proposed increase is aimed at aligning the minimum wage with current inflation rates and productivity gains. This step is crucial in achieving the government's broader goal of gradually raising the minimum wage to 950 euros by 2027, a commitment made by the New Democracy government.
The adjustment in the minimum wage is part of broader economic measures outlined in the state budget for the year. For the first time since February 2012, the budget foresees an increase in the salaries of civil servants. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis highlighted this development in December 2023, stating that 660,000 civil servants would witness an increase for the first time in 14 years.
Additionally, the incomes of around 100,000 individuals in the private sector earning the minimum wage will see incremental increases based on length of service. This includes a 10% increase for three years of service, 20% for six years, and 30% for nine years or more of service. The first set of increases for those entering this category and commencing work now is expected in 2027.
Mitsotakis has also committed to elevating the average salary to 1,500 euros by 2027, reflecting the government's broader strategy to enhance economic conditions for Greek citizens.
The European Parliament (EP) has expressed disappointment over Serbia’s lack of progress in advancing EU accession negotiations
The Ploiești Court of Appeal has ruled to annul the decision of the Romanian Constitutional Court, which had previously invalidated the results of last year’s presidential election
Montenegro’s Minister for European Affairs, Majda Gorgević, reaffirmed in an interview with BGNES that Chinese investments do not threaten the country’s EU aspirations
During the "EU Meets the Balkans" forum in Sofia, North Macedonia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Zoran Dimitrovski addressed ongoing concerns surrounding his country's EU accession process
EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos emphasized that the expansion of the European Union remains one of the top priorities of the current European Commission
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has confirmed his intention to attend the Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9
Google Street View Cars Return to Bulgaria for Major Mapping Update
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