Athens, Greece - In a bid to boost connectivity and economic growth, Greece is investing heavily in its port infrastructure. At the recent ITC 2024 Conference in Athens, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Stefanos Gikas, announced a comprehensive strategy that includes over €600 million in upgrades for both mainland and island ports.
This investment, drawn from the 2021-2027 National Strategic Reference Framework (ESPA), will have a significant impact on Greece's island communities. Over €200 million has been allocated to upgrade 30 island ports, while a further €110 million will fund projects in 17 smaller islands, facilitated by the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRDAF).
Key areas of investment include:
- Enhanced connectivity: Improved connections between islands and the mainland are a key priority.
- Modernization and security: €47 million will be used to bring ports in line with the Intereuropean Transportation Network standards and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. This includes implementing the Entrance-Exit System in 19 ports to comply with Schengen requirements.
- Increased support for vital shipping routes: Funding for "unprofitable island lines," crucial for connecting remote communities, has been increased to €150 million, a substantial rise from €90 million in 2019.
This ambitious plan reflects the government's commitment to ensuring island economies are as competitive as the mainland by 2030. This includes achieving similar development rates and providing comparable infrastructure for both regions.
This significant investment in port infrastructure signifies a major step towards strengthening Greece's maritime sector, improving accessibility for island communities, and fostering economic growth throughout the nation.
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