CRETE, (Fena) – The message from the ceremonial opening of the 10th annual forum of the European Union Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), held on May 6 and 7 in Georgioupolis, Crete, underscores a collective vision for a shared, green, sustainable, and inclusive future, with youth playing a central role.
According to a report by FENA’s correspondent, this milestone forum not only celebrates a decade of progress but also marks the conclusion of Greece’s presidency in this macro-regional initiative. The event revolves around reviewing past successes, updating the Action Plan, and setting a strategic direction for the future, particularly amidst challenges related to the green transition, EU expansion, and social equity.
Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Tasos Chatzivasileiou pointed to Crete’s historical significance as a crossroads of civilizations, stating that the EUSAIR strategy embodies a shared commitment to collaboration, resilience, and sustainable growth.
“Crete, serving as a maritime bridge between East and West, is an ideal location to reaffirm our dedication to a common future. Throughout our presidency, we prioritized five interconnected themes: European integration, the future of cohesion policy, green transition, blue economy, and environmental protection. Youth have been at the heart of this vision,” Chatzivasileiou noted.
He further emphasized Greece’s commitment to maritime security and energy connectivity through renewable sources, aiming to be a regional frontrunner in climate neutrality.
“We have demonstrated that the green transition is essential, not optional. Special attention has also been given to preparing and training young people for blue skills, as they are key to driving innovation and sustainable progress,” the deputy minister remarked.
Jean-Pierre Halkin, head of the unit at the Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy, represented the European Commission and commended Greece’s visionary leadership during its presidency.
“Greece achieved a significant milestone by updating the strategy to include a fifth dimension—social cohesion. This expansion means we now address not just the economy, environment, and infrastructure, but also the real needs of citizens, urban-rural balance, and combating depopulation,” Halkin stated.
He highlighted the crucial role of EUSAIR as the EU expands to include the Western Balkans.
“The strategy should enable regional countries to leverage tools like the Investment Plan and the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. It must serve as a bridge connecting European policies to local needs,” Halkin emphasized.
He also indicated that the European Commission will soon unveil a new multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the post-2027 period, urging EUSAIR members to strategically position the macro-region within this new context.
“Deepening the multi-level governance model is essential—active involvement from not only member states but also cities, municipalities, civil society, academic institutions, and especially youth, is necessary. The future of this region belongs to the youth, and it is imperative we give them a voice,” concluded Halkin.
During the forum, the adoption of the revised Action Plan for the EUSAIR strategy was announced, marking the beginning of a new phase in its implementation.
Over the course of the two-day event, participants will explore topics such as sustainable tourism, energy connectivity, the blue and green economy, climate change challenges, and enhancing youth involvement in public policy formation.
Deputy Foreign Minister of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Josip Brkić, who participated in the ministerial meeting, reflected on Bosnia’s presidency of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region this year.
He emphasized Bosnia and Herzegovina’s role in two EU macro-regional strategies and its commitment to strengthening cooperation between the EUSDR and the other three EU macro-regional strategies, particularly with EUSAIR, which facilitates mutual learning and experience sharing.
Brkić also highlighted the significance of tourism development in improving regional connectivity and raised concerns about the increasing risk of extreme weather events in Southeast Europe, recalling the devastating floods that struck Bosnia in October of last year. (06.05.)
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