A gathering of expatriate Peloponnesian businessmen active in different parts of the world will take place in Pyrgos on August 20 organized by the Ilia Prefecture and the two Peloponnesian associations in Thessaloniki, “Kolokotronis” and “Theodoros Kolokotronis Ramovouni Messinia”. The meeting, entitled “Culture and regional development of Peloponnese”, is an initiative aimed at contributing to the economic and cultural development of Peloponnese held under the auspices of the ministries of foreign affairs and development with the participation of the Chambers of Commerce in the prefectures of Ilia, Argolida, Arcadia, Achaia, Corinth, Lakonia and Messinia.

“The devastating wildfires in 2007 ravaged a large part of Peloponnese and the situation is very difficult,” “Kolokotronis” Association President Anastasios Kalabokis told ANA-MPA news agency, adding that the initiative was undertaken in an effort to improve things while stressing that the Greek expatriate businessmen participating in the meeting are very sensitive when it comes to the homeland. The response on behalf of the Ilia local government and SAE was immediate, Kalabokis said, underlining that cooperation with SAE is close and expatriate businessmen from all its seven regions are expected to participate.

The Greek expatriate businessmen meeting will be preceded by the 1st Gathering of Peloponnesians Abroad and Young Expatriates to be held in Ramovouni, Messinia Prefecture, on August 16. Invited to attend are 500 large families (more than 3 children each) from across the Peloponnese. The goal is to turn these gatherings into an annual event each time honoring a different Peloponnese prefecture, Kalabokis said.