INSULEUR Elects New President as EU Island Policy Gains Momentum

 

📍 Brussels, 4 April 2025 - The Network of the Insular Chambers of Commerce and Industry of the European Union (INSULEUR) held its General Assembly at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels, ushering in a new era of leadership while celebrating a major milestone in EU island policy.

A Leadership Transition

After six and a half years of dedicated service, Joseph Borg (Gozo Chamber of Commerce, Malta) concluded his mandate as President of INSULEUR, making way for newly elected President Giannis Roussos (Cyclades Chamber of Commerce, Greece).

Under Joseph Borg's leadership, INSULEUR successfully strengthened the representation of island economies within EU decision-making.

💬 "We were at the forefront, at times even before the institutions of the European Union themselves in advocating the Green Energy the Digital economy and the Blue economy as the three-pronged lifeline on which islands could thrive and base the regeneration of their economy. We at INSULEUR have remained steadfast in advocating for the interests of the European islands, ensuring that our voices are heard and our potential recognized. Together, through collaboration and innovation, we will continue turning challenges into opportunities, shaping a resilient and prosperous future for all European islands. Through our constructive and proactive approach we have managed to work in such a way so that islands are no longer considered as peripheries but as key contributors to Europe's developments." said Joseph Borg in his farewell speech.

A Milestone for EU Island Policy

The General Assembly celebrated the European Commission's Mid-term Review of Cohesion Policy, which officially recognizes islands and includes a commitment to launching a dedicated consultation on an Island Strategy. This long-awaited recognition is the result of INSULEUR's 25 years of advocacy.

📢 "With the European Commission finally recognizing the specific needs of islands, we must seize this opportunity to push for concrete measures that will translate recognition into action," stated new President Giannis Roussos.

The Newly Elected INSULEUR Board

The General Assembly also appointed a new Board of Directors to drive INSULEUR's mission forward:

• President:  Giannis Roussos - President, Cyclades Chamber of Commerce (Greece)
• 1st Vice-President: Luis Padrón - President, Chamber of Commerce of Gran Canaria (Spain)
• 2nd Vice-President: António Jardim Fernandes - President, Chamber of Commerce of Madeira (Portugal)
• 3rd Vice-President: Gaetano Attilio Nastasi - Member, Chamber of Commerce of Cagliari-Oristano (Italy)
• 4th Vice-President: Joseph Borg - Vice President, Gozo Business Chamber (Malta)
• Treasurer: 🇬🇷 Andreas Pantelios - 1st Vice-President, Chamber of Commerce of Kefalonia & Ithaca (Greece)
• Secretary General:  Antonio Grimalt - Chamber of Commerce of Mallorca (Spain)

 

INSULEUR's Vision for 2025-2027 🚀

The newly elected leadership has outlined a strategic plan for the next two years:

✅ Securing Achievements: Strengthening influence in EU decision-making, maintaining key policies like VAT exemptions for Aegean islands.

✅ Promoting a New Dynamic: Enhancing collaboration between island chambers and sharing expertise.
✅ Financial Resources: Ensuring sustainability by securing memberships and expanding the network.
✅ Encouraging Collaboration: Partnering with organizations such as Eurochambres, CPMR Islands Commission, ESIN, and EUROMONTANA.

 

 

EU-Funded Projects: Strengthening Island Economies

INSULEUR will continue its involvement in EU-funded initiatives, focusing on:

🌱 Sustainable tourism
💻 Digital innovation
🌊 Blue growth & maritime economy

 

 

Looking Ahead

With renewed leadership and a strategic roadmap, INSULEUR remains committed to championing the interests of European islands. As the EU moves toward implementing an Island Strategy, the network will continue to ensure that island economies are fully integrated into EU economic and cohesion policies.

 

 

PRESS RELEASE - General Assembly (EN) (159 KB)

PRESS RELEASE - General Assembly (GR) (200 KB)