The Alternate Minister of National Defence Dimitris Vitsas, accompanied by the Commander of the C’ Army Corps, Lieutenant General Alkiviadis Stefanis, attended today Saturday May 14 2016, the celebrations entitled ROUPEL 1941 – THE REVIVAL. The celebrations which took place at the Forts of Roupel and Istibey for the weekend May 14-15 and are organised by the Municipality of Sintiki, are under the auspices of the Ministry of National Defence and the Ministry of Interior and Administrative Reconstruction. In the framework of the celebrations, a reenactment of the Battle of the Forts, as well as of the honour attributed by the German invasion army to Greek combattants for their courage and heroism, took place at Fort Istibey today.
The Alternate Minister said during his statement: “Today is a day of celebration, honour and reminiscence. We honour the historic events which demonstrate the bravery of those Greeks who gave their life in the Forts. At the same time, it is an opportunity to promote the wealth of this place. We are making an effort, along with the Mayor, the local administration and the General Staffs, so as to promote tourism in the region; this means that we should promote but also safeguard its natural resources. The prospects we are offered by History, as well as the area itself, should trigger growth in the region. We have subitted our first proposals for projects which will be funded by the Partnership Agreement for the Development Framework. We are also in contact with veteral federations across the world, so as to enhance the frequency of visit to the forts and to globally promote the region. In parallel, what most interests us is for the new generation to learn the History of this land, visit the area and enjoy the experience”.
Tomorrow, on Sunday May 15 2016, the Alternate Minister will represent the government to the celebrations, which will take place in the presence of the President of the Hellenic Republic Prokopis Pavlopoulos, in honour of the city’s patron saint, Saint Achilles.
