Central Macedonia Governor Sets High Goals for Region

Attracting investor activity, tapping into innovation, capitalizing on culture and turning entrepreneurship outward are the key priorities for the Region of Central Macedonia, according to its governor, Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

Speaking during the 15th Cyprus Summit organized recently by the Economist on “Regional Development and Investment in the Mediterranean”, Tzitzikostas referred to the actions and initiatives that have made Central Macedonia a top performer in several areas.

Tzitzikostas said the region accounted for 28 percent of all tourist visits in 2018; increased export activity by 50 percent; and was in the lead in terms of utilizing European resources, implementing at least 1,000 upgrade projects in all areas.

Thessaloniki, Greece. Photo Source: Thessaloniki Hotels Association

Last year, Central Macedonia was also named “European Entrepreneurial Region” by the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) for its support of entrepreneurship.

Among the goals through to 2030, Tzitzikostas referred to plans to make Central Macedonia a regional center for commerce accounting for 70 percent of the country’s transport activity; a leading energy hub; and a key investment option backed by the Thessaloniki port and airport, the railway and road network linking Greece with the Southeastern Europe and Turkey, the Thessaloniki International Fair, major tourism infrastructure, real estate, innovation and culture.

“Today, Central Macedonia is the most attractive region in the Mediterranean for investments,” he underlined during his speech.

Lake Kerkini, Serres, Central Macedonia. Photo source: Region of Central Macedonia

On the sidelines of the conference, Tzitzikostas met with Chief Executive Officer of the European Financial Stability Facility and Managing Director of the European Stability Mechanism, Klaus Regling.