Topsidis meets Nava to discuss ESF+ and the 2028–2034 funding period
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis met European Commission Director-General Mario Nava in Dedeağaç to discuss the implementation of ESF+ programs and priorities for the EU's next 2028–2034 programming period.
European Commission Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion Mario Nava visited Eastern Macedonia and Thrace on Thursday, September 3, holding a working meeting in Dedeağaç with Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis.
The meeting focused on the implementation of European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) initiatives in the region, their social impact and the priorities of the Regional Authority ahead of the 2028–2034 programming period.
According to the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Authority, Topsidis described Nava's visit as particularly significant, noting that it was reportedly the first time that a Director-General of the European Commission's department responsible for employment, social affairs and inclusion had visited the region.
ESF+ implementation and regional challenges
During the meeting, Topsidis presented the progress made in implementing ESF+ programs across Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.
He said the region's Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Program has recorded performance significantly above the average of comparable programs.
Despite the progress in utilizing European funding, however, Topsidis emphasized that the region continues to face significant socioeconomic challenges, underlining the importance of European Social Fund resources in addressing them.
Focus on EU cohesion policy for 2028–2034
A major part of the meeting was devoted to the EU's new Cohesion Policy for 2028–2034, with Nava presenting the framework for the next programming period.
Topsidis stressed the strategic importance of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace as an EU border region and highlighted the need for stronger social cohesion and greater opportunities for residents.
"The Eastern Macedonia and Thrace region is where the European Union begins," Topsidis said, emphasizing the role of ESF+ and cooperation with the European Commission in addressing the region's future needs.
As part of his visit, Nava also traveled to Kavala, where he met representatives of the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Authority, local government bodies and organizations implementing co-funded projects and programs supported by European funding.
