At the 14th Regional Growth Conference (RGC 2026), organized by the newspaper PELOPONNISOS, the Region of Western Greece, and the University of Patras, under the auspices of the Hellenic Parliament, the discussion on the strategic development priorities for Ilia highlighted both the region’s great potential and the chronic weaknesses that continue to hinder the full exploitation of its advantages.
According to the relevant press release, participants in the discussion included Andreas Nikolakopoulos, Member of Parliament for Ilia with New Democracy, and Michalis Katrinis, Member of Parliament for Ilia with PASOK, in a dialogue moderated by Giorgos Mikelopoulos, a journalist for the newspaper“PATRIS,”and focused on infrastructure, tourism development, strengthening the primary sector, and the overall revitalization of rural areas.
Andreas Nikolakopoulos argued that Ilia is “moving to the next level” thanks to the progress of major infrastructure projects, chief among them the Patras – Pyrgos highway, which, according to him, is creating new conditions for the economy, investment, and the daily lives of citizens. As he pointed out, the upgrade of transportation will lead to an increase in tourist traffic, a boost in agricultural production, and better connectivity between the region and major urban centers and markets.
As he noted, Ilia now has the conditions to adopt a new model of sustainable development, based on tourism, the primary sector, and culture. Specifically regarding the cultural sector, he emphasized that the region possesses a unique historical and cultural legacy, which can serve as a catalyst for outreach and economic growth.
At the same time, he also spoke at length about the projects being implemented in the prefecture, noting that for the first time, comprehensive spatial and urban planning is moving forward through the Recovery Fund, which—as he said—will allow for more organized and targeted development in the coming years. At the same time, he emphasized that significant initiatives are underway in the health sector, with five health centers currently being upgraded, while efforts are being made to address shortages of medical staff.
Andreas Nikolakopoulos also highlighted the road safety initiatives implemented in recent years, noting that projects that had not been carried out in Ilia for decades are now moving forward and playing a decisive role in reducing traffic accidents. He also made special mention of the need to complete the highway extension to Tsakona, arguing that this extension is a critical priority for the region’s overall development prospects.
For his part, Michalis Katrinis described the Patras-Pyrgos highway as a “landmark and vital project” for Ilia and Achaea, emphasizing that it has the potential to fundamentally transform the local economy. As he noted, Ilia boasts high-quality agricultural products, a unique coastal front, and a rich cultural heritage—elements that can transform it into a strong and modern tourist destination.
However, he emphasized that these potentials cannot be realized without robust public infrastructure and comprehensive development planning. He placed particular emphasis on the health sector, noting that during the summer months the population of Ilia nearly doubles, a fact that makes it imperative to strengthen the region’s hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Michalis Katrinis also criticized the government, noting that despite the projects that have been carried out, there is still no comprehensive plan for the reconstruction of Ilia. He specifically referred to the commitments regarding the Pyrgos-Tsakonas corridor, emphasizing that while it had been designated a top-priority project, no substantial progress has been made to date.
According to him, Ilia needs a comprehensive development strategy that will support the production of high-quality products and provide added value to producers, strengthen public infrastructure, and create conditions that encourage young people to remain in rural areas. As he stated, the prefecture can become a model for regional development, provided there is political will and a plan that truly harnesses the area’s potential, such as PASOK’s plan.
Furthermore, Michalis Katrinis emphasized that the revitalization of rural areas is a key political priority for PASOK, stressing that the region needs strong public policies that will support farmers, small businesses, and local communities. As he noted, Ilia “is a blessed place” that could look completely different by 2030, provided there is proper planning and consistency in the implementation of development goals.
In his second address at the conference, Michalis Katrinis also referred to the broader political climate, noting that the country is already in a prolonged pre-election period and that society is calling for political change. As he argued, PASOK seeks to address this demand through a comprehensive government program that includes proposals on healthcare, “red” loans, housing policy, support for farmers, and assistance for low-income pensioners.
At the same time, he made it clear that there is no prospect of cooperation with New Democracy, while noting that PASOK is open to discussions with progressive forces, such as SYRIZA and the New Left. As he stated, the party’s goal is victory, political change, and the formulation of a “credible and feasible government proposal” that will emphasize regional development and social cohesion.
The Regional Growth Conference is taking place from May 19 to 21 at the Conference and Cultural Center of the University of Patras, and after more than 14 years, it has established itself as an important forum for dialogue and the exchange of ideas on the future of Greece’s regions and the real economy, contributing substantially to the formation of a modern and sustainable development model for the country, as stated in the relevant press release.
The RGC is co-organized by the Region of Western Greece and the University of Patras.