Dr Eirini Mantzouni is the Greek co- Coordinator for the Pillar 1- Blue Growth of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR).
Eirini is a marine biologist with a PhD and a robust research background in marine population dynamics and sustainable management of aquatic resources in the context of climate change. She has been involved in various research projects concerning sustainable environmental development and has contributed to various research projects focused on reducing the environmental impact of agricultural and fisheries production. Currently, she is employed at the Hellenic Ministry of Rural Development and Food, serving in the Directorate General of Fisheries. Additionally, Eirini plays a key role in the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR) by coordinating one of its key pillars.
EUSAIR is a macro-regional strategy adopted by the European Commission and endorsed by the European Council. It aims to promote economic and social prosperity and growth in the region by enhancing its attractiveness, competitiveness, and connectivity. The strategy also seeks to further integrate the Western Balkans into the broader European framework. The main topics of Pillar 1 include blue technologies, fisheries and aquaculture, maritime and marine governance, and services. Thus, the Pillar promotes innovative maritime growth by encouraging sustainable economic development and job creation, as well as business opportunities in the blue economy.
Starting from June 2024, Greece has taken over the annual chairmanship of EUSAIR. The presidency coincides with the forthcoming adoption of the revised Action Plan, allowing the strategy to adapt to the changes in its membership and to align the EUSAIR envisaged actions with current EU objectives and strategies.