His dedication to the common vision for a better Europe, which will be closer to its citizens, was underlined by the regional governor of Central Macedonia, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, in his farewell speech as a member of the European Committee of the Regions, during the anniversary 163rd Plenary Session of the institution in Brussels and in view of taking up his duties as the new Commissioner of Sustainable Transport and Tourism of the EU.

Mr. Tzitzikostas pointed out that since the beginning of his term as president of the European Committee of the Regions, unprecedented challenges were faced, such as the global pandemic, economic uncertainty and unrest in the geopolitical landscape. He underlined, at the same time, that in this process the voice of the Municipalities and Regions was strengthened in the European decision-making centers and the power of the Commission was proven.

He emphasized that today is a moment of great emotion for him, because it coincides with the 30th anniversary of the European Committee of the Regions but also because it is the last day he is there as a member of the Committee which he served with dedication and responsibility. “And as I look across this room, I see not just colleagues but true friends and partners, with whom we have made a unique journey. A journey that signifies much more than politics. A trip that allowed us to bring Europe closer to its citizens”, he noted.

“I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved together. Each and every one of you has contributed to this success. And it is your passion, your ideas and your hard work that have brought us here today. Today, when we celebrate not only the previous 30 years of the European Committee of the Regions, but also the bright future ahead of it, which the Municipalities and Regions of Europe have before them”, pointed out Mr. Tzitzikostas, addressing the members of the European Committee of the Regions.

Referring to the new challenge before him as European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, he pointed out that he takes on his new duties with confidence because, as he pointed out, “this is a unique opportunity to promote our shared values: connecting people and regions, achieving sustainable development, strengthening the role of Regions and Municipalities. Therefore, the new tasks I am taking on are not far from the work we have all done here together these years, but they constitute the new path towards our common mission, having at our disposal new tools to face the great challenges”.

Completing his placement, Mr. Tzitzikostas referred to the institution of the European Committee of the Regions: “I have no doubt that in the European Committee of the Regions the heart of Democracy in Europe will continue to beat and this Committee will represent the voice, hopes and priorities of 450 million European citizens . I want to once again express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Thank you for everything. Your trust and support is for me a huge honor and a great legacy, which will follow me throughout my life. Rest assured that I will forever be committed to our shared vision of a better Europe, closer to its citizens.”