Greek strike closes border crossing with Macedonia

Source: B92

SKOPJE -- A general strike called in Greece has resulted in the closing of the Gevgelija border for crossing with Macedonia for 48 hours, said reports.

Scenes from Athens (file)

Some flights from the main airport in Athens have also been canceled.

Greek unions have called the strike in a bid to prevent the country's parliament from adopting a package allowing for more austerity measures to be implemented.

Reports from Athens on Tuesday said that a protest that coincided with start of the strike turned violent, as police used tear gas against demonstrators.

But travelers from Serbia, mostly tourists, are concerned that they will not be able to reach their vacation destinations in Greece.

Our reporter in southern Macedonia said earlier today that there were traffic jams at Gevgelija, but that vehicles were being redirected to two other crossings.

The Interior Ministry in Skopje announced that buses and trucks will not be allowed through in the next two days, while passenger vehicles will be able to cross the border periodically.

For this reason, drivers were urged to travel to Greece via Bulgaria.

Although Greek customs workers announced a total blockade, the crossings of Dorjan and Medzetlija were still open this morning, said the Macedonian ministry.

Those headed to Greece from Serbia may wish consider alternative routes via Sofia and Blagoevgrad.

All Greece-bound flights scheduled for this morning from Belgrade went ahead as planned.