K. Lehoudis: “The region of Komotini represents an integrated model of social progress and multicultural harmony”

The Municipality of Komotini was represented by the Deputy Mayor of Finance Kimonas Lehoudis

The Municipality of Komotini as a member of the Network “Building Europe with Local Councilors BELC” participated in the three-day visit organized by the Representation of the European Commission in Greece, from April 21 to 23 in Brussels.

The Municipality of Komotini is represented in this Network for the next five years by the Deputy Mayor of Economic Affairs, Economic Planning, Development, Employment & Local Economic Development Kimonas Lehoudis. Local government officials from Greece and Cyprus, members of the specific Network, participated in the mission, who had the opportunity to get to know the institutions and be informed about a series of issues that concern the member states. The aim of the visit was to strengthen the exchange of knowledge and the cooperation between the Local Government and the EU institutions.

Great meetings
During the three days, remarkable meetings were held with EU officials. and representatives from the European Parliament and the Committee of the Regions. The members of the mission initially had a meeting with the Greek vice-president of the Commission, Margaritis Schina, who referred to European issues of direct interest to local self-government in Greece, briefly presented the available financial tools for the member states and at the end of the meeting answered questions of the participants.

Afterwards, a series of working meetings were held with officials of the Directorates General of the European Commission. Through these meetings, Mr. Lehoudis was informed about a wide range of issues concerning the Municipality of Komotini, such as available funding, Europe’s strategy for environmental protection, support for vulnerable groups and sustainable development, civil protection, crucial issue of immigration and its management in Greece, the sustainable blue economy – which is linked to the policies implemented in the coastal areas – and tourism.
He himself had the opportunity to refer to the special characteristics and multicultural wealth of Komotini.

The position of Mr. Lehoudis at the European Commission:
“The region of Komotini represents an integrated model of social progress and multicultural harmony. The Municipality of Komotini has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to the promotion of peace, solidarity and social cohesion among multicultural communities. This is a valuable example that deserves our attention and support.

The European Parliament should recognize and commend Komotini’s efforts to create a socially progressive environment that promotes peace and harmony between different cultures and religions. At the same time, it is vital that we provide the necessary support to continue and strengthen social security and protection programs in the region. These programs are the foundation for maintaining social peace and cohesion, and their continued strengthening is essential for the prosperity and development of the region.

In addition, the diversity and rich culture of Komotini create a unique opportunity for the development of tourism and the promotion of economic development in the region. In this regard, we call on the European Parliament to support Komotini’s efforts to strengthen the tourism industry and develop sustainable tourism programs that will lead to economic prosperity and development in our region.

We are convinced that supporting these initiatives will help ensure prosperity and stability not only in Komotini, but also in the entire European Union.”