Greece Used To Push Olives Up The Lesbos Agenda

The Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has put pressure on the Greek government to increase the production of olives on the island of Lesbos. Lesbos has traditionally been a major grower of olives and Italy has come to rely on them for use in cooking and in the production of high grade olive oil.

However, in recent times the island has tried to attract more tourists, and grove workers have abandoned their old jobs for more lucrative work in hotels and bars.

Berlusconi had originally approached the Prefecture of Lesbos over the issue, but met resistance due to financial considerations. Apparently he then used Italy's trade agreements with Greece to put pressure on the Greek government.

In a statement from the island we were told: "Lesbos must work together with Greece to increase capacity so that large numbers of olives can be accommodated. It's the only way to ensure mutual satisfaction."

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