Greece is set to introduce a new law prohibiting gas stations from selling fuel to motorcyclists not wearing helmets. The regulation, part of an update to the Traffic Code, aims to improve road safety and reduce fatalities. Prompted by a tragic motorcycle death in Crete, the initiative has garnered support from government officials and medical experts.
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Greece and the UAE are joining forces to address water resource management challenges, with a focus on tackling climate change impacts. Deputy Minister Stefanos Gikas and UAE Minister Abdulla Balalaa discussed plans to establish a working group to explore solutions and align efforts ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
Nikitas Kaklamanis has been elected Speaker of the Greek Parliament with 247 votes, supported by MPs from New Democracy, PASOK, SYRIZA, and others. In his acceptance speech, Kaklamanis emphasised Parliament's role in fostering civic education and called for unity and ethical leadership to address Greece's challenges, urging MPs to rise above partisan divisions.
Greek authorities have rescued 66 migrants on the southern island of Crete after they arrived from Libya by boat, part of a growing trend of smuggling operations using the Mediterranean route. The group, which included minors and women, consisted of nationals from Bangladesh, Egypt, and Sudan. Three Egyptians were arrested on smuggling charges, while migrants reported paying $2,000 each for the dangerous journey. The incident is among several recent arrivals highlighting the challenges Greece faces as migration from North Africa to Europe increases.
The Municipality of Chalandri's decision to close its long-inactive Twitter account has sparked criticism of media outlets for focusing on a story considered trivial by many. This incident raises questions about how news topics are selected and highlights the need for media to prioritize stories with significant societal impact.
Voridis stated, "We have built the fence, implemented active deterrence, and developed policies for bilateral pushbacks to the extent possible." He emphasized that Greece could serve as a case study for technically applying such measures, which could be of interest to Trump given his immigration policies during his presidency.
The Greek Foreign Ministry has condemned recent statements by North Macedonia's Prime Minister in the United States as a provocation and an attempt to revive a long-settled issue. Citing the importance of respecting the Prespa Agreement, Athens stressed that bilateral relations and North Macedonia's European aspirations depend on avoiding irredentist claims and honoring past commitments.
Oenorama, the world's largest exhibition of Greek wines, will return to Zappeion Hall in Athens from March 7 to 10, celebrating its 31st year. Over 250 wine and spirit producers will showcase thousands of Greek wines and spirits, offering a unique experience for both industry professionals and wine enthusiasts. Highlights include the Wine Tasting Gallery, the Wine Revelations Wine Bar, and a special exhibit of cutting-edge vineyard and winery equipment. Prepaid tickets are available on the official website, with limited availability at the door.
Taxi drivers in Athens will stage a six-hour work stoppage today, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, protesting the new Road Traffic Code (RTC). Organized by the Taxi Drivers' Union of Attica (SATA), the strike will include a rally and march towards the Ministry of Transport, with drivers demanding the right for commercial taxis to use bus lanes. The protest aims to raise awareness of the bill’s impact on their sector.
Greek public hospitals are facing a growing crisis as overcrowding, staff shortages, and a surge in viral infections push the healthcare system to its limits. Major facilities like "Attikon" and "G. Gennimatas" hospitals are struggling to manage the influx of patients, with many left waiting on makeshift beds for days. Doctors and staff have raised alarms over unsustainable working conditions, calling for immediate government intervention to address the shortages and improve patient care.
Greece has finalised its institutional framework for data centre licensing, paving the way for the country to become a global digital hub. A new Joint Ministerial Decision, effective from 1 March 2025, sets clear regulations for data centres based on their capacity and service type. Deputy Development Minister Anna Mani-Papadimitriou hailed the move as a key step in modernising Greece’s digital infrastructure and attracting international investment.
A 39-year-old Turkish man was arrested for the murder of an OPAP store owner in Palaio Faliro, claiming self-defense after an alleged attack by the victim. However, investigators suspect the murder was part of an attempted robbery.
Greek authorities reported the rescue of over 170 migrants in the past three days, with most found off the southern coast of Greece, an increasingly popular route for traffickers. Authorities are noting a rising number of arrivals from Libya, with many choosing the perilous journey to Greece’s islands, including Crete and Gavdos.
Freelancers in Greece have until January 31 to select their 2025 insurance category for basic and additional coverage, impacting their future pensions. With contributions tied to inflation, professionals must carefully choose their category to ensure adequate retirement benefits.
In Thessaloniki, a 15-year-old was arrested for vandalizing the statue of national hero Antonis Katsantonis. The teenager, who posted the act on social media, expressed remorse and offered to clean the statue himself. Authorities, however, pursued legal action, and the minor now faces charges for insulting national symbols.
A 14-year-old student in Thessaloniki was hospitalized after fainting during a TikTok challenge called the "Valsava." The incident, which resulted in a head injury, prompted Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis to express concern over such dangerous activities and call for increased efforts to prevent similar occurrences.
The Crete-Attica electrical interconnection, Greece's largest and most advanced energy transmission project, has reached a major milestone with the successful completion of the Site Acceptance Test (SAT). Spanning 380 kilometers and incorporating cutting-edge direct current technology, the €1.1 billion project is set to launch in spring 2025, enhancing Greece's energy reliability and sustainability.
A Hellenistic-era statue was unexpectedly discovered in a garbage bag near a trash container in Thessaloniki, Greece, prompting an investigation into its origins.
"Mythos" is set to bring an electrifying blend of Greek culture and modern music to Sydney on February 7, 2025. Hosted at Mytilenian House in Canterbury, this unique event will feature live performances with traditional Greek instruments, including bouzouki and klarino, alongside DJ sets by Alav and Tsambas. With a fusion of Euro-House beats and vibrant live entertainment, including belly dancing by Isiodora, "Mythos" promises to be an unforgettable night for anyone looking to celebrate Greek music and nightlife. Don't miss the Greek party of the year!
THI Australia will celebrate its 10th Anniversary with a Gala Dinner on March 22, 2025, at the Fullerton Hotel in Sydney. The event will highlight a decade of support for Greece, featuring performances by Greek artist Kostas Karafotis and special tributes to key contributors. Proceeds will aid initiatives in healthcare, food security, and economic development, underscoring the Hellenic diaspora's ongoing impact during Greece's most challenging times.