The National Greek Committee of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC Hellas) and the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce organized a thematic event titled: “Modern Technologies in Agricultural Production: Digital Tools for the Agriculture of the Future” at the Messara Agricultural School, at SAEK P.E. Heraklion, on Wednesday, 19 November.
The event was held under the auspices of the Region of Crete, the Hellenic Mediterranean University (ELMEPA) and the Hellenic Agricultural Organization – DEMETER (ELGO–DIMITRA), with the support of MACC – Mediterranean Agri-Food Competence Center, RVS Simaiaki Bros. G.P., and Elli’s Farm.
The aim of the initiative was to highlight technologies, present practical digital transformation solutions for crops and livestock, and inform participants about training and educational opportunities in the primary sector.
At the successful event, organized and coordinated by Eva Simaïaki, Lead Coordinator of ICC Hellas for the Region of Crete and Deputy Coordinator of the ICC Hellas Working Group on Rural Development, the President of ICC Hellas, Petros G. Doukas, was present.
– In his address, he warmly congratulated Ms. Simaïaki for the excellent organization and emphasized that the “embrace” of ICC extends to more than 100 countries, to over 2,000 Chambers of Commerce—members of the World Chambers Federation (WCF)—and to thousands of private individuals, entrepreneurs and professionals around the world.
He underlined that ICC’s objective is to strengthen international fellowship and mutual understanding through the increase of commercial transactions and the implementation of accepted rules, such as Incoterms and Letters of Credit.
He elaborated on the areas where ICC has a leading presence, such as International Arbitration (ICC International Court of Arbitration), alternative dispute resolution, intellectual property, agricultural development, women’s entrepreneurship, as well as the significant networking opportunities it offers. He also highlighted the work of the International Maritime Bureau (IMB), the ICC Academy in Singapore, and the work of ICC’s international committees.
At the same time, he referred to initiatives such as the Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), to the work of the ICC Research Foundation, and to the operation of the ICC Center for Entrepreneurship. Finally, regarding the agricultural sector, he emphasized the transition to larger units and the revolution of technology: autonomous tractors, robotic harvesting, precision systems, drones, AI, hydroponics and “green” energy.
– An address was delivered, on behalf of the President of the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce, Vangelis Karkanakis, by the President of the Commercial Department, Ioannis Manousidakis.
– A congratulatory letter was sent by Heraklion MP and former Deputy Minister, Maximos Senetakis.
Key speakers of the event were:
– Dr. Stella Chatzigeorgiou, Director of the Messara Agricultural School, Agronomist.
– Dr. Maria Symeonidou, Head of European Programs, Agronomist – Heraklion Chamber of Commerce.
– Dr. Emmanouil Kampourakis, Associate Professor, ELMEPA.
– Ioannis Chasourakis, MSc, Laboratory of Olive Growing, Viticulture and Agroecological Production Systems (EASAP) – ELMEPA.
– Eva Simaïaki, Certified UAS Operator (EASA) – Partner at RVS Simaiaki.
– Dimitris Mingas, Technical Consultant – Pythagoras-Genou & Co G.P.
– Giorgos Manousakis, Networking Manager – MACC.
The event was honored by the presence of:
– Nikos Koundourakis, representative of MP and former Minister Lefteris Avgenakis.
– Georgios Ndispyrakis, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Phaistos.
– Konstantinos Spyridakis, First Vice President of the Rethymno Chamber of Commerce.
– Presidents of Cooperatives, representatives of institutions, agronomists, professionals and a large audience.
At the end of the event, participants enjoyed excellent traditional products, a kind sponsorship of Ellis Farm / Eliama.