Spyros Kokotos

President,
Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises

Philoxenia 2000 greeting.

This year’s Philoxenia comes at a very critical moment for Greek tourism. After a long quality crisis period, and difficulties due to problems outside the country’s borders, Greek tourism has been called upon to show a new image, to become more competitive and to assist in the social and economic development of this country.

The European Union’s third support program presents a unique opportunity to achieve these aims.
However, while tourism is indeed a part of this program it should have an even bigger portion (of the funds available) when we consider the impact tourism has on our national economy. Philoxenia, even though it does not reach the expectations created and even though it confronts difficulties because of the changes being implemented, consists of a good opportunity where the private and public sector can meet and exchange ideas.

Philoxenia must put forth a message to government and all those involved in the sector that tourism has the will and the power for substantial development.

SETE, as every year, will not only take part in the exhibition but also (through a press conference) refer to the main problems that confront tourism. As well, it will organize a separate event for tourism entrepreneurs on the theme “possibilities of tourism enterprise development through the Greek stock market.”