Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias spoke about this year’s tourism performance in terms of arrivals and revenues, the strategic steps being taken to develop winter tourism, the goals for 2023, the case of E. Kailis and the stakes of the upcoming elections. in the Macedonian newspaper.

According to him, data from airports, the Bank of Greece and EL.STAT show that arrivals and revenues have approached or even exceeded in some cases the record levels of 2019, which, however, was a “carefree” year, without problems. “When compared with the pre-pandemic period, it should be taken into account that in the first months of 2022 there were restrictions due to the Omicron option, followed by a war in the heart of Europe, accuracy, inflation, an energy crisis. As an example, let me cite the data released last week by Fraport: this year, passenger traffic at the 14 largest regional airports in the country set a record: from January to November, 30.5 million passengers were transported, which is 3.6% more than in 2019. “In addition, we have strengthened cruises by increasing homeporting from 5,000 calls to Greek ports, which is a record number, and in the context of the sustainable tourism model, we have identified new cruise destinations (Thessaloniki, Kavala, Volos, etc.)” – he said. said Mr Kikilias, adding that despite this year’s adversity, travel revenue not only met last year’s budget target, but exceeded it by 3 billion euros. “This is hot money that goes straight into the pockets of Greek citizens who need it so much, especially in this difficult financial period,” he said characteristically.

Regarding the tourist flow during Christmas and New Year, he stated that the occupancy rate is expected to be very high, reaching even 100% in popular destinations. After the holidays, as he noted, there will be a new drawing of the Tourism for All program for 125,000 intangible digital cards to stimulate domestic tourism and support winter/mountain destinations after the holiday season.

Speaking about the next goals, he emphasized that 2023 will be the year when the sign of sustainable development will be more visible everywhere. From advertising campaigns to the implementation of a number of infrastructure projects on islands and continents, such as solid waste management, water resources, electrification, renewable energy, ports, marinas, marinas, mountain trails, ski resorts, wineries, etc. He specifically mentioned Thessaloniki , noting that the number of cruises will grow even more, which was 10 times more this year than in 2019, the city will be promoted as an ideal city vacation destination, while new opportunities are opening up. launch in the US and Saudi markets and new direct flights.

Referring to recent political developments, he stressed that the allegations against E. Kylie are a very serious matter and that such corruption undermines the confidence of citizens, especially the new generation. “The gap between politicians and society is growing, and if we do not do something, then at some point it will no longer be bridged. We must always remember that without the trust and support of citizens, we, politicians, are nothing, and we must not forget for a moment who gave us our parliamentary positions and for what reasons we voted and are in power,” said Mr. Kikilias .

Finally, he stressed that no one can dispute the fact that in recent years the country has faced numerous and serious crises (pandemic, pinpoint, energy, Greek-Turkish), however, the government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis has proved that with seriousness and responsibility it can be effective, take the right initiatives at the right time, offer solutions and be on the side of society in any difficulties that may arise. “There will soon be a political response to the ballot box bet and we will all come together to try again and complete our work for another four years,” the tourism minister said.