Governor Topsidis presents the 2024 activity report
The Governor of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Christodoulos Topsidis, presented the 2024 activity report during the regional council meeting held on the evening of Wednesday, January 29, 2025.
A Vision for a Modern and Dynamic Region
The meeting took place at the Yorgos Pavlidis Hall in Komotini, where Governor Topsidis shared the annual report with the public. He emphasized their commitment to transforming the region into a more modern, dynamic, and innovative place that its people can take pride in.
Reflecting on his administration’s first year in office, Topsidis highlighted significant strides in the region’s development. These achievements were made by focusing on key strategic sectors such as agriculture, commerce, business, tourism, culture, and the environment, resulting in tangible and measurable outcomes. His ultimate goal is to position the region as an attractive hub for workforce, investment, and tourism.
Regional Achievements in National Rankings
Governor Topsidis stated that the region currently leads Greece in several areas:
1st place in funding applications for the new Regional Development Program (ESPA).
1st place in project contract execution.
2nd place in project approvals.
3rd place in payments.
1st place in municipal projects under the 2021-2027 ESPA program.
Key Challenges and Future Goals
Topsidis pointed out that demographic change remains one of the region's most pressing challenges and needs to be addressed. He also stressed their ongoing efforts to support entrepreneurship, create new employment opportunities, and integrate research and innovation into the business sector.
Significant steps have been taken to protect human life, property, livestock, and the environment. In this regard, disaster and emergency management projects have been strengthened. Investments in the education system have also been a priority, aiming to secure a better future for young people.
Furthermore, the administration has expanded services for vulnerable social groups, worked to combat discrimination, promoted equal opportunities, and supported social inclusion.
International Engagement and Sustainable Tourism
Governor Topsidis highlighted the region’s active participation in European and international projects to strengthen its global presence. Additionally, efforts have been made to improve internal services and increase human resources.
He also underlined the region’s progress toward becoming a model for high-quality and sustainable tourism, reaffirming their commitment to addressing every issue with a responsive and citizen-focused governance approach.
Commitment to Open Dialogue
At the conclusion of his report, Topsidis emphasized the importance of open dialogue and the exchange of ideas beyond political and ideological differences. “Productive discussions and open-minded exchanges drive society forward and contribute to the development of us all,” he stated.
Closing his speech, he declared:
"We will continue to stay close to our citizens, listen to their needs, support their initiatives, and implement projects that will make a real impact on their daily lives. This is our commitment, and it will always remain so."
During the presentation, officials from various districts provided further details on key sectors such as social policy, disaster management, economy, culture, tourism, agriculture, and education.
