East Macedonia and Thrace Region highlights active role in Black Sea and Balkan Cooperation Platform
The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (EMT) participated in the International Conference on the Balkan and Black Sea Regions held in Patra from May 27 to 29, 2026, emphasizing its growing engagement in regional and international cooperation frameworks.
In a statement, the DMT Regional Authority underlined that its outward-looking strategy, institutional networking efforts, and international cooperation policies are being steadily implemented under the leadership of Regional Governor Hristodoulos Topsidis.
The conference was organized by the CPMR Balkan and Black Sea Commission, in cooperation with the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) and the BSEC Parliamentary Assembly, bringing together representatives to discuss key regional challenges.
DMT was represented at the event by Odisseas Vourvoukelis, who participated in discussions covering energy, transport connectivity, climate resilience, water resource management, tourism, and the blue economy—issues described as crucial for regional development.
The statement highlighted the strategic position of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace at the crossroads of the Balkans, the Black Sea, the Aegean, and the Eastern Mediterranean. Its ports, transport infrastructure, energy potential, agricultural sector, tourism capacity, and cross-border character were cited as key factors making the region a natural stakeholder in regional cooperation initiatives.
The regional authority noted that participation in the conference forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen its presence in international networks. Efforts in agrifood, local products, innovation, fisheries, and aquaculture are aimed at increasing competitiveness and international visibility.
It was further emphasized that the region, through its External Relations Office, actively engages in international platforms related to development, investment, and institutional cooperation. Vourvoukelis was also noted to have recently represented the region at a Mediterranean development forum, presenting its vision on international cooperation, entrepreneurship, investment, and regional development networks.
The DMT Regional Authority concluded that Eastern Macedonia and Thrace aims to play a stronger role in development, sustainability, innovation, and cross-border cooperation processes in the wider Balkan and Black Sea region, stressing that its participation in Patra demonstrates its position not merely as an observer but as an active stakeholder in regional cooperation.
