Polish government reaches agreement with protesters blocking the border with Ukraine

This was announced by the Minister of Infrastructure of Poland, Adam Książkiewicz, as reported by Reuters.

Książkiewicz, announced the agreement, stating that they had signed a deal resulting in the suspension of the protests at three border crossings – “Korchova”, “Grebenne”, and “Dorohusk”.

He mentioned on Twitter, “We are starting intensive constructive negotiations that should have an effect in implementing what we have agreed upon”.

Under the terms of the agreement, truckers have agreed to suspend their strike until March 1, providing the government time to meet their demands. The main demand is the cessation of the visa-free transportation for Ukraine, abolishing the permit system for transporting goods from Ukraine to the EU.

The agreement comprises seven points, including:

• Ending the blockade of border crossings by March 1.
• Intensive negotiations between the parties regarding the fulfillment of truckers’ demands.
• Ensuring equal conditions for Polish and Ukrainian carriers.
• Support for Polish carriers affected by the blockade.

“This is an important step forward for both sides. We have agreed to end the blockade, which will allow the normal flow of goods to be restored”, said Książkiewicz.

Earlier today, the Romanian government also reached an agreement with its farmers who had been protesting on borders, including the one with Ukraine. Discussions are ongoing to find a compromise on outstanding requests. Romanian farmers had blocked truck traffic on border crossings with Ukraine, demanding compensation for losses caused by Ukrainian grain imports.

On January 15, Romanian farmers blocked truck traffic at the border crossings “Vikova-de-Sus — Krasnoilsk” and “Siret — Porubne”.

Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary jointly requested the European Commission to impose import duties on Ukrainian grain, citing alleged unfair competition. Polish farmers had blocked the “Medyka — Shehyni” crossing, demanding subsidies for corn purchases and the preservation of the agricultural tax, reaching an agreement with the government on January 6, 2024. Since November 6, 2023, some border crossings, such as “Korchova — Krakivets,” “Grebenne — Rava-Ruska,” and “Dorohusk — Yahodyn”, have been partially blocked by Polish carriers.

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