Greece and Bulgaria yesterday signed an agreement to upgrade the rail link joining the two countries in a move they believe will help boost trade ties between the two European Union nations. Greek Transport Minister Evripidis Stylianidis (left) signed the agreement with his Bulgarian counterpart Petar Mutafchiev in Komotini, northern Greece. The deal also simplifies procedures regarding cargo transported by train while also boosting security levels. ‘The benefits of the deal relate mainly to the significant reduction in transport times for both passengers and cargo,’ the Greek ministry said in a statement. ‘With regard to the transportation of perishable cargo products, it will minimize the risk of them being damaged or spoiled.’