On February 6, Prime Minister Antonis Samaras presented the Greek presidency’s Strategy for the Adriatic-Ionian Region (EUSAIR) as a field for growth and security, during the opening of an EU conference (EUSAIR) held in Athens on the issue. In his address, the premier noted the large potential for economic growth in the Adriatic - Ionian Region, structured around four pillars: cutting-edge sectors, such as shipping, shipbuilding and logistics; the development of tourism across the Adriatic and the Ionian Region, which can become a leading international destination; the enhancement and promotion of the natural environment, of the economy and the scientific research related to the environment; and, the emergence of the Adriatic as an important trade route for the transportation of goods and energy in all directions.

More information: European Union Strategy Conference for the Adriatic - Ionian Region

A meeting of the High-Level Working Group on Gender Mainstreaming took place at Zappeion Megaron, in Athens on February 6-7. During the two-day meeting, it was highlighted that the "equal participation of women in the economy and the efforts to boost growth should be a principle concern of an up-to-date gender equality policy in the European Union at this point in time."

The meeting focused on the critical area of ‘Women and Economy’ putting the spotlight on the need for the equal access of women in the labour market and in entrepreneurship. The selection of the topic by the Greek Presidency was not without a good reason, as was explained by the Secretary General for Gender Equality Vasso Kollia in her opening speech. Kollia pointed out that "the female population, especially in the member-states of the South is disproportionately affected by recession. The participation rates of women in the labour market remain consistently lower than those of men."

More information: Europe’s urgent need for a growth-sensitive policy on gender equality; see also Greek News Agenda: An Eye on EU Presidency