Kassapidis: "Rising trend of Turkish involvement in local business, but it doesn't concern us"
Recent discussions have centered around the increasing purchases of real estate by Bulgarians and Turks in the villages of Evros. The mayor of Alexandroupolis, Yiannis Zamboukis, referred to this as a "silent colonization," linking it to the recent European elections, where the Turkish-speaking party KIEV in northern Evros received 500 more votes than in the previous election.
However, according to Vasilis Kassapidis, President of the Alexandroupolis Chamber of Commerce, there is currently no cause for concern in the local market. He stated that, while there has been a relatively upward trend in Turkish business activity in the region in recent years, it is not at a level that raises any serious alarms. The businesses being opened are mostly small and scattered shops, all of which are registered with the Evros Chamber of Commerce.
The Case of Hotel "Ira"
There are a few notable exceptions, such as the purchase and renovation of the "Ira" hotel in the center of Alexandroupolis by Turkish investors. According to Kassapidis, there is also rumor of a potential medical center opening in the area.
The "Ira" hotel was one of the most well-known hotels in the city, and its auction sale took place in July 2023. The starting bid was 907,000 euros, and it was facilitated by Cepal Hellas Financial Services. Renovations are currently underway, and once completed, the hotel will be upgraded to a four-star establishment.
Turkish Involvement in Real Estate
Kassapidis also commented on Turkish involvement in real estate transactions through the Golden Visa program, which is fully in accordance with Greek law. He emphasized that this is not unique to Alexandroupolis but occurs throughout Greece.
In relation to the real estate market in Evros, he mentioned that Turkish individuals have been buying properties at low prices. These properties are typically owned by immigrants who have inherited them but never visit, and decide to sell. He cautioned that if this activity becomes widespread or has a specific purpose, it may raise concerns.
