Topsidis: “We are not the edge of Greece. We are the beginning of Europe”
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis has highlighted the region's strategic geographical position and economic potential, calling for greater investment, infrastructure development and stronger cooperation to turn its advantages into sustainable growth and employment.
Speaking at the 3rd Regional Growth Conference of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, held in Gümülcine (Gümülcine) on November 3–4, 2026, Topsidis outlined the regional administration's development strategy and discussed the area's growing geopolitical significance.
In his opening remarks, the governor pointed to the region's geographical location, ports, energy infrastructure, agricultural sector, industry and natural and cultural heritage as major competitive advantages.
He stressed that these assets must be translated into concrete investments, productive economic activity and new employment opportunities through coordinated long-term planning.
INVESTMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE AMONG KEY PRIORITIES
During the conference, Topsidis took part in a one-to-one discussion titled “A Development Plan for Eastern Macedonia and Thrace”, moderated by Maria Nikoltsiou, journalist and television presenter at ALPHA TV.
The discussion focused on investment, infrastructure and the region's main development priorities.
THRACE'S EMERGING GEOPOLITICAL ROLE
The governor also participated in a panel titled “The New Geopolitical Significance of Thrace”, alongside Rodopi New Democracy MP Evripidis Stylianidis and retired Lieutenant General Konstantinos Koussantas. Nikoltsiou moderated the discussion.
Participants examined Eastern Macedonia and Thrace's position within the evolving geopolitical landscape, focusing on regional security, connectivity and economic development prospects.
Topsidis argued that achieving the region's development potential requires consistent cooperation between the national government, regional authorities, municipalities and business and production organisations.
He also stressed the importance of balanced development across all five regional units, strengthening the productive base and creating new opportunities for younger generations.
“The Region does not seek to play the role of a mere observer of developments. It wants to be an active interlocutor, a planner and a leading force in the changes our region needs,” Topsidis said.
Concluding his remarks, the governor summarised his vision for the region's position in Greece's and Europe's future development strategy with the statement: “We are not the edge of Greece. We are the beginning of Europe.”
