“OR Santorini returns to normalcy. It remains a safe and hospitable destination and with proper management, we are proceeding for yet another dynamic tourist year. “. This clear message was sent by Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogiannis during her address at the “Year of the Year and Support of Authenticity – Santorini 2025”, an initiative of the Municipality of Thira backed by the Ministry of Tourism.

Ms. Olga Kefalogiannis described Santorini as a global recognizable, iconic destination, which is a symbol of unique beauty, cultural heritage and hospitality, and has a decisive contribution for Greece to be one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.

“The Ministry of Tourism stands next to the local authorities and the society of Santorini to achieve the common goals: the promotion of the island’s tourism and cultural contribution, the preservation of its authenticity and the sustainable tourism development“, The minister stressed.

The Minister of Tourism, referring to the challenges facing the island at the beginning of the year, stressed that the state, in cooperation with scientists and local government, is implementing preventive and targeted civil protection measures, constantly monitoring the situation for any additional interventions.

Ms Kefalogiannis announced a series of initiatives undertaken by the Ministry to support the island, making special reference to the creation of a destination management and promotion organization by the Municipality of Thira, funded by the Recovery Fund.

“Our politics is in line with the rule of balance and measure. It is our strategic choice to promote a model of governance, which will cooperate with the central government, local government and the private sector, ”he said.

Ms. Kefalogiannis made a special mention in interventions aimed at alleviating the pressure that some destinations such as Santorini receive, especially during peak months, highlighting the institutionalization of the cruise end.

“With a view to the reciprocity“, The Minister added,”As part of this income it will return to local communities, but also available to improve tourist infrastructure for quality tourism upgrading.“

Concerning the upcoming special spatial spatial framework for tourism, Ms Kefalogiannis stressed that she would be an important institutional tool for the state, local government and the tourism economy, as it will identify an organized way of growing, and laying firm foundations for land use in tourism activity.

“We need to be removed from the outdated model that prioritizes the quantity of quality and adopt an approach that focuses on long -term development in terms of viability and the durability of destinations. “

Concluding her speech, the Minister of Tourism pointed out that “Year of Nomination and Support of Authentability – Santorini 2025” may be an indicator of a new trajectory of sustainable tourism development, and stressed: “It highlights the unique identity and environment of the island, strengthens the local community and offers experiences that remain engraved in memory. And, of course, this approach is not just about Santorini. It concerns destinations throughout Greece“