Edirne tourism delegation meets Topsidis to discuss tourism and border crossings
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis met with a delegation from the Edirne Regional Representation of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB) in Gümülcine on August 7 to discuss increasing tourism flows, improving border-crossing infrastructure and strengthening cross-border tourism cooperation.
The Turkish delegation was led by Egemen Aydın, deputy head of TÜRSAB’s Edirne Regional Representation. The meeting was held at the regional administration headquarters in Gümülcine and was also attended by Regional Deputy Governor for Tourism Panagiotis Archontis, Deputy Governor for Digital Transformation and E-Government Rıdvan Molla İsa, and other regional officials.
Tourism cooperation between Edirne and Eastern Macedonia and Thrace
The two sides discussed opportunities to expand cooperation between the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region and TÜRSAB.
The meeting focused on increasing tourist flows, developing new partnerships between tourism professionals and improving the region’s tourism services.
Officials also emphasized the importance of improving the travel experience for visitors crossing the Greece-Türkiye border, particularly during periods of increased traffic.
Border crossing upgrades
Border infrastructure and waiting times were among the main issues discussed.
Topsidis informed the Turkish delegation that extensive renovation work is underway at the Bahçeköy (Kipi) border crossing, with the project expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The renovation aims to improve the crossing’s ability to handle growing traffic volumes and meet current infrastructure and service requirements.
Work has also begun on plans for a new customs station at the Çörekköy (Kastanies) border crossing. The new facility is expected to provide modern infrastructure and increased service capacity.
24 service stations planned along Egnatia motorway
The meeting also addressed services available to travelers using the Egnatia motorway.
Under its agreement with the Greek authorities, the motorway’s new operator is expected to establish 24 roadside service stations along the route stretching from Meriç to Epirus.
The planned facilities are intended to better meet travelers’ needs while improving road safety and the overall quality of transportation services.
The meeting took place in a positive atmosphere, with both sides agreeing to maintain communication and pursue joint initiatives to promote Eastern Macedonia and Thrace and strengthen cross-border tourism cooperation.
