By my capacity as President of the G.N.T.O., I warmly greet the 6th Nafplio International Film Festival, “Bridges”.
In Greece, the country that gave birth to Philosophy, the Sciences and Arts, its cultural heritage must be at the forefront when it comes to actions concerning touristic economy.
Many of you may have heard me saying that in our homeland Tourism and Culture must walk down the same path. The “Bridges” Festival, as the title insinuates, aims to reinforce communication channels, as well as peace and friendship between people and cultures. It is that very same goal which is shared by the economy of hospitality, as I often like to call tourism.
In this context, the G.N.T.O. gave with great pleasure its support to the Nafplio Film Festival, further acknowledging its contribution:
-in the creation of added value in the local, cultural and touristic product
-in the promotion of the region of Argolida and the wider Peloponnese as an alternative, all year round, cultural tourism destination
-in stimulating the local economy and firming up its social cohesion.
In addition, the support of the G.N.T.O. to this event is part of the coordinated effort that is being made in the last few years, by all parts involved in promoting our country as a high-quality filmmaking destination. The creation of FILM OFFICES in Athens, Thessaloniki and the Ionian Islands is moving in this very direction.
But this year’s festival has one more special significance for me personally. It symbolizes a special, key “Bridge” in my acting career.
You see, as an actor, I had the joy and above all the honor of working with the one of our greatest directors, Theodore Marangos, who is also the honorary creator at this year’s Festival. The Rebel with a Cause, Theodoros Marangos, who has served with ethos and exemplary devotion for so many years in the field of Culture. Our collaboration on “Runaway of the Moon” has always been for me an unforgettable journey into the magical world of the 7th art.
Before I leave you, I would like to warmly congratulate again the organizers, all the parts involved and the Artistic Director Mrs. Petra Terzi for perfecting this event and wish you all good luck.
Angela Gerekou – actress
President of the Greek National Tourism Organization