Farmers suspend planned border blockade at Bahçeköy (Kipi) crossing after government talks invitation

Farmers in the Evros (Meriç) region have announced the suspension of a planned full-scale blockade at the Kipi Border Crossing, which was set to take place on Saturday night.

The decision comes after the Dedeağaç Agricultural and Livestock Association confirmed that Greece’s Ministry of Rural Development and Food had formally invited farmer representatives to talks aimed at addressing long-standing grievances.

According to the association, the ministry has scheduled a meeting in Athens for Monday, where unresolved issues affecting the agricultural sector will be discussed.

Mounting Pressure on Farmers
In a strongly worded statement, farmers highlighted the growing economic strain facing the sector, warning that accumulated challenges have reached a critical point.

“The accumulation of numerous problems has made the situation unmanageable for the people of our region. The widespread impoverishment of an entire sector is now a reality,” the statement said.

Farmers emphasized that their initial decision to proceed with a full blockade of the border crossing stemmed from frustration and desperation over worsening conditions.

“This tragic reality, combined with our anger and despair, had driven us once again to the decision to completely shut down the Kipi customs point.”

“A Final Chance” for Dialogue
Despite expressing deep dissatisfaction and a sense of being ignored by authorities, farmers said they are willing to give negotiations one last opportunity.

“Despite feeling mocked and deeply disappointed, we have suspended Saturday’s protest. This is not for the sake of meaningless dialogue, but to hear why promises were not kept and when debts will be paid.”
They warned, however, that tensions remain high and that the suspension should not be seen as a sign of retreat.

“Our tractors remain on standby, and our anger is close to overflowing. We are making this final effort to avoid confrontation. We will meet in Athens on Monday.”

Risk of Renewed Disruption
The planned blockade had raised concerns about potential disruptions to cross-border trade between Greece and Turkey, particularly at one of the region’s key transit points.

While the immediate threat has been averted, the outcome of Monday’s talks is likely to determine whether protests escalate again in the coming days.