Disappointment at Rhodope Chamber over exclusion from Prime Minister’s meeting agenda
The Professional and Craft Chamber of Rhodope (EVER) has expressed strong dissatisfaction after being left out of the Prime Minister’s official meeting schedule during his recent visit to the region.
In an official statement, the Chamber noted that visits by the Prime Minister—especially to border regions—are both an honor and an opportunity for meaningful dialogue, assessment of local challenges and planning of policies that support regional development. However, EVER stressed that no meeting whatsoever was scheduled with local business representatives, including the Chamber itself.
According to the announcement, the decision to visit exclusively large industrial units in the Industrial Area (VI.PE.) sent “the wrong message,” creating the impression that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—the backbone of the local economy—are being overlooked.
EVER emphasized that SMEs in Rodopi face daily struggles: high operating costs, limited liquidity, economic pressures, and additional developmental disadvantages linked to the region’s geographic and social characteristics. Excluding their representatives from the agenda, the Chamber said, implies that the most vulnerable part of the productive sector “remains invisible and undervalued.”
The Chamber reiterated that the state must listen to those on the frontline of production and the market, particularly during a period of uncertainty and challenges. While reaffirming its readiness for dialogue, cooperation, and contribution of proposals, EVER called for a genuine, open, and equal consultation process.
The statement concludes with a call for a future visit by the Prime Minister that will ensure the substantive inclusion of Rodopi in national development planning, with local businesses at the forefront.
