Bulgaria – Greece: Negotiations for a new water supply agreement from the Arda River

Background, Bulgaria’s Position, and Greek Concerns
According to a recent report by the Bulgarian National Television (BNT), a bilateral committee has been established between Bulgaria and Greece to address the issue that arose following the expiration of the 60-year water supply agreement from the Arda River.
The agreement, signed on July 9, 1964, ensured a regulated supply of water from Bulgaria to Greece for irrigation purposes. With its expiration on July 9, 2024, Bulgaria is no longer obligated to provide these water quantities. To meet irrigation needs from July 10, 2024, to September 30, 2024, a temporary commercial agreement was signed between Bulgaria's National Electric Company (NEK) and Greece’s Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. NEK has stated that the agreed water quantities were fully provided. Currently, the bilateral committee is working towards a long-term solution for the water supply from the Arda River.
The Temporary Commercial Agreement
To sustain crop irrigation during the summer season, Bulgaria's NEK and the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace signed a temporary commercial agreement. This agreement ensured continued water supply until September 30, 2024, under specific terms and financial compensations. While NEK confirmed full delivery of the agreed water quantities, Greece is now seeking a new long-term agreement to secure a stable water supply beyond 2024.
Bulgaria’s Position
The Bulgarian Ministry of Environment and Water has stated that its priority is to meet Bulgaria's national water needs first. Due to climate change and increasing water demand, Sofia aims to ensure its own water security before committing to a new agreement with Greece.
Greek Concerns
Greek officials emphasize that around 212,000 hectares rely on Arda River water for irrigation, particularly in the Thrace and Macedonia regions. A lack of agreement could severely impact agricultural production, affecting key crops such as cotton, tobacco, and cereals. Local authorities fear that if Bulgaria permanently halts water flow, Greece may have to explore alternative irrigation methods, which are either too costly or technically challenging.
The Bilateral Committee and Negotiations
Negotiations between Greece and Bulgaria have begun to find a sustainable solution. Key discussion points include:
A new, long-term agreement with clear terms and commitments.
Alternative scenarios allowing for continued water flow with adjusted quantities or costs for Greece.
Technical solutions, such as new infrastructure for water storage and management in Greece.
The situation remains uncertain, as Bulgaria has not shown willingness to renew the agreement under the same conditions. While Greece aims to secure stable irrigation for its crops, negotiations are ongoing without a definitive resolution yet.
Source: in.gr