Topsidis outlines key development projects in Rodopi region
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (EMT) Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis presented a comprehensive overview of completed and planned projects in the Rodopi regional unit during a press briefing held in Komotini on Wednesday, July 2.
The event was attended by Deputy Regional Governors Emmanouil Tapakas (Rodopi), Nikos Efkarpidis (Administrative Services and Human Resources), Ridvan Haji Mehmet (Agriculture and Livestock), Ridvan Molla Isa (Digital Transformation and E-Government), and Ahmed Osman Pehlivan (Advisor for Land Policy and Mountain Areas).
Under the theme “A Human-Centered Approach to Governance,” Topsidis emphasized the importance of addressing local needs through projects that strengthen infrastructure, support vulnerable populations, and contribute to sustainable economic development.
“People are at the core of all our efforts. Since taking office, our vision has focused on projects that serve the unique characteristics of the region and improve everyday life,” Topsidis stated.
Key focus areas include:
Infrastructure: Support for the construction of the new Komotini Hospital, flood prevention works, road safety improvements, and public building renovations.
Agriculture and Livestock: Financial and technical support programs for local farmers and breeders.
Education: Partnership with Democritus University of Thrace and upgrades to educational infrastructure.
Health: New healthcare services and investments aimed at improving community well-being.
Social Policy: Expansion of services and creation of new units for vulnerable groups.
Youth and Employment: Establishment of a Regional Youth Council to enhance youth participation in decision-making.
Topsidis also highlighted the region’s success in leveraging European Union funds, noting that EMT ranks among the top in Greece for EU-backed initiatives. So far, 23 projects with a total budget of €10 million have been implemented.
Additional regional initiatives announced include:
Fleet Renewal: Acquisition of 40 new passenger vehicles, 10 electric cars, and 5 salt-spreader 4x4s; retirement of 15 outdated vehicles.
First Aid Training: In collaboration with the National First Aid Centre (EKAV), all middle school students will receive basic CPR and first aid training.
Youth Engagement: The formation of the Regional Youth Council will focus on citizens aged 17 to 30.
Governor Topsidis is scheduled to continue his regional tour with a visit to Alexandroupoli, where he will present ongoing and upcoming projects for the Evros regional unit.
