“The worst possible scenario” was described by the Minister of Maritime and Island Policy Vassilis Kikilias the possibility of closing the Hormonespeaking to ERTabout developments in Middle East and the impact on Greek shipping and economy.

At the same time, Mr Kikilias pointed out that any further escalation would have a direct consequence of navigation, world economy and Greece.

The minister assured that the Coast Guard business chamber was closely monitoring the Greek ships sailing in the wider area, with data renewals every six and twelve hours. Although no problems have been reported so far, the Greek authorities remain on a constant alert. “The situation in the Middle East is very serious. We are seeing a continuous escalation, which leaves no room for complacency, “Mr Kikilias stressed, stressing that” war has always been unpredictable, as it appeared in Ukraine. “

Impact on economy and energy

The minister made extensive reference to the immediate impact of geopolitical instability on the Greek economy, in particular the price of fuel, affecting production, industry, tourism and shipping. “The economy is also a psychology. Tourism is based on stability and this situation finds us at the beginning of the tourist season, ”he said.

In addition, it has urged those who have a public step to be careful in their public placements, as “over -risk of risk can be damaging to the country”.

Reduction

Vassilis Kikilias said he was pleased with the retention of prices on ferry tickets, despite pressure from rising fuels due to European environmental decisions. “From 2017 to 2024 prices had risen 38%. This year, while 15%increases had been announced, with a 50%reduction in port fees and the market consultation, we have achieved not only to increase but to decline in some cases by up to 32%, “he said.

According to him, this is crucial for relieving middle class and enhancing tourism mobility.

Infrastructure, Ports and Cruise

Referring to the state of port infrastructure, the minister stressed the need to modernize them. Special mention was made in Santorini and Mykonos, where the implementation of a cruise fee will be implemented on July 1, which will be directed to port projects.

For the port of Spetses, he assured that the ministry would support local authorities in the implementation of legality and order, while illegally reimeds are already being dried and intervening to better serve the vessels.

Migratory flows and new business axes

The minister noted that migratory flows are continuing, with a new focus on the Southeast Aegean and the Libyan Sea, due to conflicts in the Middle East and Africa.

Special reference was made to the need to strengthen cooperation with Libya and the support of its port. He emphasized the importance of the legislative framework for the return of illegal immigrants, which is soon expected by the Ministry of Immigration.

Technological Modernization and Port Policy

Mr Kikilias said there were competitions for the digital modernization of the Ministry and Port Authorities, supplies of new boats, drones, cameras and sensors to monitor the 18,500 nautical miles of maritime borders. “It is our obligation to support equality on islanders’ access to services,” he said, referring to the provision of 42m euros through the island equivalent.