Parliament votes to lift ban on grain imports from Ukraine

published on 9/14/23 1:36 PM

Photo: Reuters

Bulgarian Parliament has voted to lift the ban on grain imports from Ukraine after 15 September. The decision was taken with 124 votes in favour by the MPs from the majority and the MRF party.

There were 69 votes against and 8 abstentions. The BSP, Vazrazhdane and There is Such a People parties voted against, accusing the importers of hiding behind the parliament's decisions.

Iskren Mitev from We Continue the Change said the ban on imports wasn't working anyway. "Ukrainian grain is all over Europe, what we need to do is provide a transit corridor," the MP said.

Agriculture Minister Kiril Vatev explained that the macroeconomic indicators show that Bulgaria has no concerns about the lifting of the ban on Ukrainian grain, as the government is able to support Bulgarian farmers and will strengthen the control over herbicides, pesticides and heavy metals in imports from Ukraine. Grain growers have announced that they will organise protests against the decision.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended his gratitude to Bulgaria for waving the restrictions on Ukrainian grain exports after September 15 this year. "Bulgaria sets an example of true solidarity," he tweeted, mentioning Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov and his team, as well as Bulgarian lawmakers.

Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!

Share

Parliament votes to lift ban on grain imports from Ukraine

More from category

Coldеr weather with rain and snow

The average gross annual salary in Bulgaria in 2023 is EUR 12,519

PP-DB will vote for Speaker of the Parliament after a signature under their declaration

Between 80 and 90% of water for domestic and industrial needs is lost in Bulgaria's water transmission network

PP demanded the resignations of two MPs who did not support the candidacy of Silvi Kirilov

Sharp change in the weather expected on Friday