The 24th Regular Electoral General Assembly of HAPO was held

Wednesday, February 18 – 24th Regular Electoral General Assembly of HAPO Held at Holiday Inn

With the presence of the Board of Directors of HAPO, the 21 members, staff, and partners, the 24th Regular Electoral General Assembly of HAPO took place at the Holiday Inn.

The following were presented:

• The scientific work and promotional activities for 2024.
• The report on European issues concerning the European bodies HAPO participates in (such as the Aquaculture Advisory Council and Federation of European Producers).
• The sales progress of aquaculture products in the domestic market and exports to the EU and third countries.
• The report on administrative and financial activities for 2024.

The following was discussed:

• The problematic competition from third countries, mainly Turkey, which is now the largest producer country in the Mediterranean by far. This highlights the recurring need for the completion of spatial planning as the only tool to ensure the economic and environmental sustainability of the industry and increase Greek production.

Unanimously approved:

• The financial budget for 2025, which will approach €3.0 million.

Elections followed for the selection of the new Board of Directors and Audit Committee.

The re-elected President of HAPO, Mr. Apostolos Touralias, mentioned:
“In the General Assembly that preceded, the members of HAPO decided to remain unwaveringly focused on the goals and objectives of the organization, and despite the difficult circumstances, we approved the budget for 2025 amounting to €3.0 million. However, a major obstacle in achieving the organization’s goals for sustainable development is the state, which has proven completely unable to complete the spatial planning of the sector (after 13 years). This is due to the controversial stance and indecisiveness of the General Secretariat of Spatial Planning, as well as the political leadership of the responsible Ministries of Environment and Rural Development. Recently, we have also had to face an escalating campaign by various movements, networks, and initiatives of so-called concerned citizens with unclear motives and goals, through appeals to the Council of State, conferences, and publications in print and electronic media aimed at misinforming the government and public opinion. We are determined, always within the framework of the rule of law, to respond strongly with every available means in every direction.”

The General Assembly concluded with the cutting of the cake.

As part of HAPO’s Corporate Social Responsibility Program, the prize for the coin in the cake will be donated to the Special Needs Center “CHARA.”