The restart of the Thessaloniki-Izmir ferry connection now presents political and economic interest, which however requires a series of technical and operational decisions as noted by Haris Theocharis.
The Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Diplomacy Haris Theocharis commented in an interview with APE-MPE. As Mr. Theocharis emphasized, who was part of the government delegation that accompanied Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Turkey, the recent Joint Declaration between Athens and Ankara creates the framework and political will for the restoration of the ferry line and opens the way for cooperation, however it does not yet commit to a specific launch date.
Theocharis: Direct connection between the two ports – Boosting tourism development of island destinations
“The Joint Declaration focuses primarily on the direct connection between the two ports. However, the possibility of intermediate stops is not excluded and could be the subject of future examination, within the framework of a relevant feasibility study. Such a prospect could strengthen the tourism development of island destinations and add additional momentum to the route. The final decision will depend on technical data, market demand and the business choices of the companies that will undertake the project,” the Deputy Foreign Minister clarified.
At the same time, efforts are being made to deepen bilateral cooperation through economic mechanisms and business forums, which aim to attract investment and expand trade relations.
“Within the framework of the 6th Session of the High Level Cooperation Council, a Joint Declaration of Cooperation was signed between Enterprise Greece and the Investment Office of the Turkish Presidency. This provides, among other things, for the co-organization of an annual Investment Forum, alternately in the two countries, with the aim of strengthening investment flows and expanding business cooperation. The exact timeline for the first forum will be finalized in the coming period. Expectations focus on strengthening bilateral trade and creating stable communication channels between business communities,” Mr. Theocharis said.
Asked about the atmosphere during the recent meeting between the Greek Prime Minister and the Turkish President in Ankara, the Deputy Foreign Minister characterized it as positive and constructive, with emphasis on gradually building confidence and promoting areas of common interest.
“The emphasis was placed on maintaining stability and ‘calm waters’ as a basis for further development of cooperation. Without ignoring the known differences, the approach that emerged focuses on promoting areas of common interest – such as economy, investments, transport and natural disaster management – with the aim of building confidence and creating tangible benefits for both sides,” Mr. Theocharis concluded.
