Government Declares Support to Carriers in Opposition to EU Mobility Package

The Bulgarian government declares support for the position of the transport industry in Bulgaria for the new mobility package. This became clear after Prime Minister Boyko Borisov's meeting with representatives of the sector on 8^th of May. Carriers again threatened with protests on May 16 and 17, when the EU leaders will meet for the European Union - Western Balkans summit in Sofia.

The Mobility Package envisages new requirements for the transport companies. The so-called "Mobility Package" provides that TIR lorry drivers from Eastern European countries will receive per diems at the same size as the drivers from Western Europe and a mandatory 45-hour weekly rest at a hotel.

The prime minister said he would discuss the issue with French President Emmanuel Macron and with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Speaking at a briefing after a meeting with Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, Hristo Hristov, owner of international transport company said Bulgarian carriers received support from the government for a protest against the proposed mobility package in the EU. The protest is organized for 16 and 17 May. Bulgaria would be the worst affected country if the law on this package is adopted. “Most of the 12,500 companies active in international transport will likely go bankrupt,” he added.