World Global Executive Summit (WGES)
International Symposium & Expo
October 6-8, 2026
Athens, Greece
Academic Coordination: University of West Attica (UNIWA)
Dear guests,
Representatives of the academic, scientific and business community,
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I address you with a message of welcome at the opening of the International Symposium World Global Executive Summit (WGES). This year’s event, held in Athens in partnership with the University of West Attica, multiplies our joy and pride, offering us a valuable opportunity to address critical challenges of our time: the Green Economy, Circular Economy, Urban Sustainability, and Economic Development, with targets for climate resilience, green and sustainable growth, and the transformation of our productive and social structures.
It is true that internationally we are at a critical turning point. Various crises – with the persistence of armed conflicts foremost among them – combined with the admittedly extreme climate crisis today, do not simply constitute a dystopian vision of the future, but reflect a tangible, everyday reality testing the resilience of people, nature, communities, infrastructure, and economies across our planet.
The interdisciplinary approach adopted by the Symposium guarantees the effective functioning and achievement of the desired goals for all participants – the Symposium itself, the Hellenic Parliament, and the academic scientific and research community alike.
Scientific analyses and positions being presented in areas such as circular economy, blue development as sustainability pillars, the multidimensional nature of the green transition with key emphasis on resource reuse, drastic waste reduction, and the redesign of industrial processes are not merely environmental imperatives, but also sources of new, sustainable economic value and innovation that opens new business prospects.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Parliaments play an institutional and decisive role in this global effort, as international cooperation is inevitably realized through them. As legislative bodies, we are called to transform knowledge into action through top-level leadership and international cooperation. We must establish the appropriate institutional and regulatory framework that will encourage practical solutions, set the conditions for a transition that must be socially just, inclusive, and supportive of the most vulnerable social groups.
The presence of distinguished speakers, scientists, and particularly leaders of the international economy at the WGES symposium confirms that these challenges transcend national borders. Climate change knows no geographic limits. It requires interstate cooperation, exchange of expertise, technology transfer, and shared vision. Greece, as a pillar of stability and innovation in the Eastern Mediterranean and Europe, actively supports every initiative promoting sustainable development, Greek and international innovation, and green entrepreneurship.
I warmly congratulate the organizers, members of the scientific committees, and all those who contributed to this important symposium. I am confident that the presentations, exchanges of academic and business experience, and constructive discussions during the WGES proceedings will yield valuable conclusions and practical solutions.
With these reflections, I welcome the opening of the International Symposium WGES and wish you heartfelt success in your work.
Thank you very much.
Nikitas M. Kaklamanis
President of the Hellenic Parliament
The honourable President Of The Hellenic Parliament, Mr Nikitas M. Kaklamanis was unable to attend WGES Forum in person, but he sent a written statement, which was fully communicated in quote by the Moderator of the Forum, Dr. Vassilia Orfanou, Chief Operating & Innovation Officer, LUDCI.eu International Media & Press to all esteemed speakers, guests, sponsors, and stakeholders during the forum’s opening session.
