Economic Mission at the Region of Crete

Mission of Foreign and Economic Diplomats to the Region of Crete, 15-19 June

The mission of the Economic and Commercial Counselors of Foreign Embassies to Crete from June 15 to 19, 2011 is part of Invest in Greece’s Synergassia initiative. The mission was jointly organised by Invest in Greece and the newly elected Region of Crete with the support of the Greek Foreign Trade Board (HEPO), the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) and the Export Credit Insurance Organisation (OAEP).

On Wednesday, June 15, 2011, the Head of the Region, Mr. Stavros Arnaoutakis welcomed the mission at a dinner. During his welcome address, Mr. Arnaoutakis emphasised that Crete Aims to become a business, research and technology center for the Southeast Mediterranean. Invest in Greece’s Executive Chairman, Mr. Aristomenis (Aris) M. Syngros, discussed the new model of development of Greece that is based on innovation, competitiveness, openness, employment, and of course, the natural wealth and the comparative advantages of the country.

On Thursday, June 16 2011, a workshop was organised to inform the mission on investment opportunities in the Region. Mr. Arnaoutakis, during his address said that the Region of Crete is preparing a comprehensive strategy to promote local products and Crete as a culinary destination. He pledged to speed up administrative and licensing procedures, to remove obstacles and to support new investment plans. Invest in Greece’s CEO, Mr. Christos Alexakis thanked the participants for their presence and described both the Synergassia initiative and the Region’s comparative advantages. The rest of the presentations delivered by esteemed speakers were all of great interest to participants.

On Friday, June 17, 2011, more than 1000 B2B meetings were held between 80 businessmen and the 35 diplomats who participated at this mission. Participants expressed their belief that the B2Bs will spur further cooperation.

During the five day mission to Crete, participants had the opportunity to visit industries, businesses and cooperatives and to share information with entrepreneurs.

The foreign diplomats expressed their satisfaction at this well organised mission to Crete. While interviewed by the local media, a spokesperson for the Club of Commerce and Economic Attaches expressed their admiration for the high level of entrepreneurship on the island and their wish that this mission will result into concrete and fruitful collaborations.

Please download the investment profile of the Region of Crete.