The “EUTOPIA” Program Presented by the Region of Thessaly in Collaboration with the Hellenic-Indian Chamber of Commerce

“EUTOPIA” is a cooperative program between Greece and India aimed at the fair, safe, and efficient recruitment of workforce from India to Greece.

In his address, the Regional Governor of Thessaly, Mr. Dimitris Kourretas, stated:
“We are entering a new era in the Region of Thessaly—one of full transparency and legality for foreign workers who come here to work and who must live with dignity, just like Greek citizens. The Region of Thessaly, in cooperation with the Hellenic-Indian Chamber of Commerce and with the intent to support Thessalian businesses and representatives of the primary sector, will fully contribute to this ambitious initiative.”

The Deputy Regional Governor for the Primary Sector and Agricultural Economy, Mr. Dimitrios Tsetsilas, emphasized that such initiatives significantly improve cooperation between the two countries and expand the potential for linking employers and workers through a modern, institutionally established digital system.

The President of the Hellenic-Indian Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Angelos Tsavdaris, noted that advanced discussions are underway with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship of India regarding the procedures for recruiting workers. He also pointed out that the Chamber has ensured safeguards in areas such as housing, insurance coverage, training, and worker evaluation.

Special emphasis was placed on the need to establish Worker Housing Centers by repurposing abandoned military camps in cooperation with the Ministry of National Defense, so workers can be accommodated in modern and appropriate facilities. Moreover, Mr. Tsavdaris reassured employers that in the event of contract termination due to recorded misconduct, the Indian government is obliged to replace the worker.

The dedicated digital platform for submitting expressions of interest will be available in early July 2025, aiming to serve Greek businesses and safeguard the rights of Indian workers.

The panel also included the Secretary General of the Chamber, Mr. Dimitris Melas, and advisor Ms. Georgia Korakaki, who responded to numerous questions from representatives of Thessaly’s Chambers of Commerce, the Association of Thessalian Enterprises and Industries (STHEV), the Association of Industries in Thessaly and Central Greece (SVTHSE), agricultural and livestock cooperatives, producer groups, and private stakeholders.