The prospects for expanding and deepening cooperation between the Region of Crete and France in strategic sectors, such as gastronomy, tourism and innovation, were examined by the Deputy Governor of Crete, Giorgos Pitsoulis, and the Ambassador of France to Greece, Laurence Auer, in the context of the official visit of the French diplomat to Heraklion.
During the meeting, the actions and results of the Innovative Entrepreneurship Observatory of the Region of Crete were presented, with the Ambassador expressing particular interest in the work of the body and underlining the importance of regional innovation for sustainable development.
Particular emphasis was placed on the field of gastronomy, which Laurence Auer described as a natural field for cooperation between Greece and France. Specific possibilities for joint initiatives in the near future were discussed, with the aim of promoting Crete’s gastronomic extroversion, its connection with tourism and the cultivation of synergies with French academic and research institutions.
Giorgos Pitsoulis referred to the international potential of Cretan gastronomy and the high-quality local products that led to the declaration of Crete as the Gastronomic Region of Europe for 2026. At the same time, he highlighted the high level of the island’s university and research structures, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Region’s Innovation Hub.
“These sectors strengthen the extroversion of Crete and create fruitful prospects for cooperation with France, a country with which we share common values, mutual respect and long-standing bonds of friendship,” the Deputy Regional Governor stated characteristically.
On the French side, the Director of the Hellenic-French Chamber of Commerce Katerina Manali, the Honorary Consul of France in Crete Sofia Tsandiraki and the Educational and Scientific Attach? of the French Embassy Matthieu Abgrall participated. From the Region of Crete, officials of the development and innovation structures attended.
The meeting concluded with a joint statement of the strong foundation and significant potential that exist to further strengthen Greek-French relations, through synergies that promote Cretan production, culture and innovation in the international environment.
