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Greece and the Balkans: Economic Relations
DOI link for Greece and the Balkans: Economic Relations
Greece and the Balkans: Economic Relations book
Greece and the Balkans: Economic Relations
DOI link for Greece and the Balkans: Economic Relations
Greece and the Balkans: Economic Relations book
ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a quick overview of the state of Greece's economic relations with the Balkans, drawing some conclusions related to the prospects. The Balkans are a relatively minor trade partner of Greece. The post-1989 and post-Dayton geopolitical environment in the Balkans has modified the situation regarding cooperation in the transport sector. A regional approach to Balkan transport networks, superseding national antagonisms which lead to overlaps and irrational options is a necessity. The Balkans are poor in energy resources and hence net importers of energy. Greece imports some electric energy from its northern neighbours, while its northern ports, especially Thessaloniki, are gateways for energy supplies to Macedonia and elsewhere. There is certainly scope for improving cooperation between Greece and its Balkan neighbours in a number of energy-related areas: interconnection of grids; pipeline networks; and exploitation of local energy resources, including hydroelectric potential.