Bulgaria and Greece step up the fight against cross-border crime and corruption

22.07.2026 | Foreign policy

The interior ministers of Bulgaria and Greece have signed key agreements on joint patrols, combating illegal migration, and tracing oligarchic assets.

Снимка от Kyah117, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Strengthening cooperation between Sofia and Athens

Minister of Interior Ivan Demerdzhiev held a meeting with his Greek counterpart Michalis Chrisochoidis, during which strategic steps for the security of both countries were outlined.

"For us, Greece is a strategic partner in border protection and the fight against illegal migration and cross-border organized crime," stated Demerdzhiev.

Key security measures:

Fight against oligarchy and corruption

A special emphasis in the talks was placed on uncovering the financial assets of individuals linked to oligarchic structures in Bulgaria that operate on the territory of Greece. The Greek side has committed to providing full cooperation in establishing the origin of these funds.

The two ministers agreed that close interaction is a fundamental prerequisite for security in the region and stability within the EU.