In the context of the new NSRF, “Crete 2021-2027” is the first Greek regional program among the 13 regions of the country, which has been approved by the Commission on the relevant proposal of the European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reform, Elisa. Ferreira. The new regional program has a total budget of 565 million euros and is increased by 150 million euros compared to the previous one.

This is a success of exceptional value and importance, opening up new avenues for the development and prosperity of our island. In fact, this first of ours has earned the praise of leading actors in the European Union, such as the head of the Directorate-General for Regional Policy, Carsten Rasmussen.

The operational plan that we have presented to the European institutions is based on specific goals. It is based on measurable goals. It highlights our vital priorities to deal with chronic backlogs. And most importantly, allows us to effectively respond to the opportunities and opportunities offered to us, making Crete a prosperous and competitive region.

We are convinced that by adopting a forward-looking strategy, we can achieve and achieve medium and long-term goals, giving our political interventions substantial content. After all, this is how we correctly prioritize the needs of the place and society. The package of eight actions and actions we have chosen harmoniously combines poverty alleviation with social cohesion, green development with innovation, entrepreneurship with support for the local economy, disparities between urban centers and rural areas, with a policy of convergence and reduction of inequalities.

With the new NSRF, we are securing the necessary financial resources, providing a practical answer to our commitments. Through correct and transparent management, we make a decisive contribution to our rapprochement with the advanced European regions. Through fruitful dialogue and cooperation with all national and local actors and, above all, with civil society, regional governance becomes a strong political and development infrastructure.

Thus, in practice, we overcome the atrophy of the institution of the region, gaining our own voice and role in the main issues of our country.

The region of Crete, while maintaining an authentic connection with a living reality, strives to function as a versatile development laboratory. In addition, renouncing fruitless rivalries, short-sighted approaches, unnecessary suspicions and even political disputes, he wants to have his own help and contribution to overcome backwardness, using the development prospects available to Megalonisos.

The new regional program has a total budget of 565 million euros and is increased by 150 million euros compared to the previous one.

Thanks to new financing models, we are implementing major infrastructure projects while modernizing existing ones. The reconstruction of the Northern Road Axis (BOAK) is undoubtedly a long-term project connecting Kissamos with Sitia. Together with the vertical axes, we create conditions for multifaceted development. With the new airport at Kastelli, prospects for the whole of Crete are opening up. By attracting investments, we additionally strengthen the labor market, creating new jobs.

In addition, with the proper use of the NSRF and other community resources, we are implementing small and large projects at the pan-European level. By switching to renewable energy sources and electrical connections, we are combating energy shortages and also protecting the environment. Thanks to the dynamic support of research and science, we distinguish Crete as the university center of the Mediterranean and Europe.

Through our unique tourism product, we attract visitors and tourists, further boosting our local economy. Through our unique agri-food chain, we link the primary sector with tourism development. By properly managing waste, we put the circular economy into practice. By emphasizing our cultural heritage and traditions, we preserve the value and appeal of our island.

The Recovery Fund, the new NSRF, the community sector programs are our tools for a productive and development-oriented country. Of course, it is enough to leave aside old habits and practices. European funds are not available for vote hunting and petty politics. Not for uneducated politics and side interventions, forgetting about the vital projects the country needs.

The European award of the region of Crete shows us the path that we must follow without falling into complacency and complacency. On the contrary, it imposes additional responsibility on us, since we are obliged to prove that we really deserve the trust of our European partners. And this is because we constantly strive to ensure that our country becomes the main force for sustainable development.

Mr. Stavros Arnaoutakis is the Regional Governor of Crete.