Tourism is a rapidly developing market with a unique dynamic and great potential. For Athens, conferences, company meetings and incentive travel represent one of the most profitable and qualitative forms of tourism. Intense competition on an international level demands that development strategies be adopted that will facilitate the continuing rise of urban tourism in Athens, particularly in the areas of conferences, trade shows and major events.

The mission of the City of Athens is to establish the Greek capital as a competitive destination throughout the year, thus bolstering the local economy as a whole.

Events such as the 6th International Meetings and Incentives Conference (IMIC 2010) contribute significantly to the proper interpretation of current data, to the professional growth of the Greek tourism sector and to the acquisition of technical expertise on matters related to the support of the market during this difficult period of worldwide recession. These types of events allow us to contemplate the future of conference tourism in Athens with optimism.

The City of Athens, and I personally, will stand in support of events such as IMIC 2010 which will encourage tourism growth and contribute to the promotion and advancement of Athens.

I want to wish the conference good luck and express my hope for productive and creative thought that will result in specialised knowledge and effective action for the future of tourism.

Nikitas Kaklamanis

Mayor of Athens