This news follows a parliamentary inquiry by PASOK deputy Giorgos Nikitiadis, who questioned the program's delay. Nikitiadis, representing the Dodecanese islands, highlighted a previous postponement from the initial February 1st launch date to March 1st.
Pilot Phase Paves the Way for Full Implementation:
Gerapetritis assured Nikitiadis that the program's full rollout would follow a successful pilot phase. He attributed the initial delay to the program's intricate nature, requiring coordinated efforts from various government ministries.
Program Details:
Limited Expansion Potential:
While acknowledging requests from other islands for inclusion, Gerapetritis cautioned that the program's exceptional nature within the Schengen agreement restricts its reach.
Looking Ahead:
The anticipated launch of the express visa program signifies Greece's efforts to boost tourism from neighbouring Turkey. The pilot phase on five Aegean islands will be crucial in determining the program's effectiveness and potential for further expansion.