At the 11th Regional Growth Conference, which takes place again this year at the Conference and Cultural Center of the University of Patras, critical issues concerning the future of the region of the entire country are approached.
The Conference that was held for the first time in 2012 has evolved into an institution that tackles the important challenges faced by the Greek regions. It offers the opportunity to reflect and address issues related to Greece‘s regional policy, strengthening the regional economy, stimulating growth and employment.
The debate on upgrading the Greek tourism product in a sustainable way, which is based on the development of strategies in the hospitality industry after the end of the pandemic, was of interest. Commented on how sustainable investment can lead to sustainable regional development. Spilios Livanos, head of the Greek delegation to the CS-NATO, stated that everything around us is related to tourism.
The ministry and the government promote through programs the “green tourism” succeeding in escaping from the outdated model of mass tourism. For his part, Andreas Filias, deputy regional governor of finance in the region of Western Greece, referring to the ways that can promote sustainable tourism, emphasized the uniqueness of the Western region, which is the only one that, having used European money, created digital museums that are a great attraction for tourists as well as the digital browsing program. In similar ways aimed at digital transformation, tourism in Greece can become a model at a global level.
Coordinator
Georgios Eugenidis, TV Presenter, STAR CHANNEL, Journalist “Proto Thema”
The discussion was attended by:
Spilios Livanos, head of the Greek Delegation to the CS-NATO
Andreas Filias, Deputy Regional Governor of Finance, Western Greece Region
Alexandros Angelopoulos, CEO, Aldemar
Dr. Evangelos Bekiaris, Director of IMET/EKETA
Elsa Exarchou, Managing Director, Branding Greece
Katerina Saridaki, Director of Capsule T Accelerator
Angeliki Mitropoulou, Scientific Associate of the Institute for Alternative Policies (ENA) in the fields of tourism
#Upgrading #tourism #product #sustainable
What actionable steps can attendees take after attending the Regional Growth Conference to contribute to their region’s growth and development?
## Interview with a Regional Growth Conference Attendee
**News Editor:** Welcome to the program. The 12th Regional Growth Conference just wrapped up at the University of Patras. Can you share your thoughts on the event?
**Guest:** Absolutely! The Regional Growth Conference has become an indispensable platform for discussing the pressing issues facing Greek regions. This year, as with previous years, it brought together a diverse group of stakeholders – government officials, industry leaders, non-profit representatives, journalists, and concerned citizens. The energy and commitment to finding solutions were palpable. [[1](https://green-living-areas.interreg-euro-med.eu/2024/06/17/green-living-areas-mission-joins-regional-growth-conference-in-greece/)]
**News Editor:** What were some of the key topics discussed this year?
**Guest:** The conference covered a wide range of critical issues, from sustainable development and economic diversification to regional infrastructure and social inclusion. It’s important to remember that these aren’t just regional concerns; they have national implications for Greece’s future.
**News Editor:** The conference has been running for over a decade now. How has it evolved since its inception?
**Guest:** You’re right, the first conference took place back in 2012. Since then, it has undoubtedly become a vital institution for shaping regional policy in Greece. It provides a unique forum for open dialog, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. This year, for instance, I was particularly impressed by the focus on innovative solutions and best practices shared by different regions. [[1](https://green-living-areas.interreg-euro-med.eu/2024/06/17/green-living-areas-mission-joins-regional-growth-conference-in-greece/)]
**News Editor:** What are your hopes for the future of the Regional Growth Conference?
**Guest:** I believe the conference has a crucial role to play in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Greece. My hope is that it continues to be a driving force for positive change, fostering collaboration and innovation across regions to build a more sustainable and prosperous Greece for all.
