Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who is visiting the western side of the city, is in Thessaloniki today.

The prime minister’s first stop in western Thessaloniki was the suburban forest of Eukarpia, where 300,000 trees are being planted in an area of 3,000 acres donated by businessman Stavros Andreadis.

Mr Mitsotakis was welcomed by the mayor of Pavlou Mela, Dimitris Aslanidis, and the businessman Stavros Andreadis.

Mitsotakis gave a brief tour of the site and described it as an important “lung of greenery and recreation”, adding that it is a “jewel for western Thessaloniki.

The Prime Minister said that so far, 70,000 trees have been planted, and the construction of the recreation centre is underway. “We hope to inaugurate it in the spring, Mitsotakis also said.

For his part, the mayor of Pavlos Mela, Dimitris Aslanidis, referred to Mr Mitsotakis’ visit to the suburban forest, stressing that “it marks a historic moment for Western Thessaloniki” while thanking Mr Andreadis for the donation.

“A vision of the years is taking shape thanks to the generous donation of Mr. Stavros Andreadis, whom I thank warmly for his contribution to our place. This project is not just a lung of greenery,” he added, “It is the beginning of a new concept for the quality of life, the environment, and the upgrading of our urban space. The Municipality of Pavlos Mela is seeking and can objectively become a Green Municipality – a model for the whole of Greece.”

The incidental forest of Eukarpia, when delivered to the public, will include a total of 300,000 trees, while within the forest will be formed walking trails, bicycle paths, and a refreshment center.