Meriç farmers head to Athens for talks, suspend border blockade plans

Farmers from Meriç travel to Athens for talks with the Agriculture Ministry, postponing planned blockade of the Bahçeköy (Kipi) border crossing amid growing economic pressure.

Representatives of farmers and livestock breeders from Meriç arrived in Athens on Monday for a critical meeting with government officials, prompting the suspension of a planned blockade at the Kipi border crossing.

The protest action, initially scheduled for last Saturday, would have seen a full closure of the Kipi Border Crossing, a key transit route between Greece and Türkiye. However, the Agricultural and Livestock Association of Alexandroupoli opted to delay the mobilization after receiving an official invitation from the Ministry of Rural Development and Food.

In a public statement, the association emphasized that resolving long-standing structural problems in the agricultural sector remains its top priority. It warned that the accumulation of unresolved issues has pushed farmers in the region to the brink.

“The impoverishment of an entire sector is now a reality,” the statement read, pointing to mounting frustration and a deepening sense of distrust toward authorities.

Despite strong grievances, farmers said they are offering what they described as a “last chance” for meaningful dialogue. They are seeking clear answers on delayed payments, unfulfilled promises, and the broader lack of policy support.

“Not for empty dialogue, but for explanations—why commitments are not honored and when concrete measures will finally be implemented,” the statement added.

Farmers warned that tractors remain on standby and that protests could resume if the talks fail to produce tangible outcomes.

The meeting in Athens is seen as a crucial moment that could determine whether tensions escalate into broader disruptions or move toward resolution.