The Europa.S. 2018 annual meeting has officially started, with the Opening ceremony being both bright and spectacular, promoting the importance of the program and its meaning.
The ceremony started with the Director of the French Institute of Athens greeting the delegates with humor and charm. The Director gave a small speech about the connection between the French and Greek culture, as well as information about the French Institute in Athens. After him, Despina Papadaki also gave a small speech, greeting the delegates and thanking the hosts. Next, the co-founder Mr. Antonakakis had the floor, giving his welcoming speech, mentioning the problems Europe is facing right now and the importance EUropa.S. has in solving them. What followed was a very informative presentation about ESDC and its objectives. The ceremony continued with a video message by Mr. Navracsis Tibor, who also talked about the benefits of the participation in the EUropa.S. conference. Afterwards, there was a quick presentation about Maria Damanaki, who was awarded later that day. We were very pleased to listen to some very inspirational speeches by other honorable individuals such as Mr. Leonidas Antonakopoulos, Mrs. Koraitidi and Mr. Papazoglou.
All the speakers have a common point of view. Countries, who belong to the European Union should feel that they belong to the “same side”. As Mrs. Damanaki mentioned “our biggest enemy is the nationalistic intolerance”. So the only solution to assure solidarity among the countries is establishing mutual respect. Only by enhancing of the “European Identity “the EU members will be able to achieve financial growth and face challenges like terrorism.
By George Okaro and Chrysa Karagianni.
