Dinos Astras

President,
Hellenic Association of Professional Congress Organizers (HAPCO)

PHILOXENIA 2010 greeting.

With 25 years of active presence in the Greek tourism exhibition market, the 26th Philoxenia, which opens its gates on 18 November 2010, will launch, as every year, new services and innovative communication and business channels.

HAPCO, together with its members, supports each action/event/exhibition aimed at professionals of the tourism industry and aspires to promote the Greek tourism product. In this direction, exhibitions such as Philoxenia hold an important position within the annual program of HAPCO’s activities.

The year 2009 was a troubled one and 2010 sees the situation unchanged. However, forecasts for the Greek and international market in 2011 differ. They are sometimes positive, due to the tendency of most people to remain optimistic and take risks, and sometimes negative, due to prevailing unfavorable conditions. Therefore, what the professionals can do is to continue to strive for the best and have faith in the future.

HAPCO has never given up a battle nor intends to do so now, as difficult as the conditions may be. The Greek conference market deserves a high place in the world rankings and every day HAPCO’s Board and Members fight more and more vigorously to achieve this goal.

HAPCO’s presence at Greek and international exhibitions enhances the image of the Greek conference product. Perhaps one day, with help from the state, we will see Greece in a prominent position among the top conference destinations worldwide.