Metropolitan Anthimos: “We’re tired of empty promises… People are selling and leaving the region”
Metropolitan Anthimos of Alexandroupoli delivered a stark warning during a recent forum, stating that by 2030, seven villages in the Alexandroupoli region and around twenty villages in Northern Evros may disappear from the map.
Criticizing the government for failing to fulfill its promises to the region, Anthimos remarked, “The Kipi customs building remains a national embarrassment. At the very least, take down the Greek and EU flags—let’s not create another source of shame.”
Recalling the rhetoric often used by officials during their visits to the region—such as “The Alexandroupoli area will be another major step in transforming Greece into an energy hub. It will contribute to energy security and independence, offering new sources and routes for natural gas supply”—Anthimos expressed frustration: “We’re tired of these words. People are selling off and leaving this place.”
Concluding his speech, the Metropolitan reiterated his concern for the region’s future, stating, “I estimate that by 2030, seven villages in the Alexandroupoli area and twenty villages in Northern Evros will no longer be on the map.”
