Gold mining in Thrace at the center of Arvanitis’ tour
SYRIZA MEP Kostas Arvanitis met with representatives of the Inter-Prefectural Committee Against Gold Mining and the Mayor of Alexandroupoli during a recent visit to Evros, where he announced plans to organize a high-level event in Alexandroupoli this coming autumn.
The meeting was initiated by the Evros Regional Committee of SYRIZA–Progressive Alliance and aimed to address the latest developments regarding gold mining investment plans in the regions of Evros and Rhodope. Discussions focused on institutional interventions at both national and European levels to safeguard local communities and the natural environment.
Participants emphasized the formation of a strong and unified front against gold mining. This coalition includes institutional bodies, local government representatives, professional associations, farmers’ cooperatives, environmental organizations, and active citizens. The importance of further strengthening this collective stance at the local level was highlighted.
The Inter-Prefectural Committee provided an update on recent actions taken by the mining company, stressing the need to intensify both legal and political efforts to counter these developments.
The meeting was held in a spirit of cooperation and shared concern regarding the potential environmental and social impacts of gold mining activities in the wider Thrace region.
Following the discussions, MEP Arvanitis visited the City Hall of Alexandroupoli for a meeting with Mayor Yiannis Zampoukis. Their conversation focused on the environmental, economic, and social consequences of potential mining operations in the municipality. The necessity of respecting local communities and the region’s character was strongly underscored.
Other topics addressed included Alexandroupoli’s broader development prospects, the city’s growing tourism sector, offshore wind turbines, alternative housing models, and pressing demographic issues.
Concluding his visit, Mr. Arvanitis announced his intention to host a public event in Alexandroupoli—referred to as the "border of Europe"—this autumn. The event will welcome Members of the European Parliament and other institutional figures, aiming to discuss crucial issues facing the region, such as demographic challenges, environmental protection, and energy development.
