“Scientists have given us the ‘green light’, everyone has returned to the island.”
The message that Greece is a safe and hospitable country and that “after two consecutive years of record for Greek tourism, we are optimistic, as the messages for 2025 are very positive” was sent by the Minister of Tourism. Olga Kefalogiannis In interviews she gave to British and international media during her visit to London.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s BBC The World Tonight broadcast and CNN’s “Quest Means Business” television show, the Minister sent an invitation to the international community to visit the Santorini and the Greek destinations.
“The important message I want to convey today is that Santorini, which I visited a few days ago, as well as the neighboring islands, is open and operating normally. Visitors should feel absolutely confident that they can book for the season. Santorini is ready to welcome the world and I invite visitors from all over the world to live its unique beauty, “Ms Kefalogiannis said.
Referring to recent seismic events, he noted:
“We prioritized security when the seismic activity took place at the beginning of the year. Now, scientists have given us the “green light”, everyone has returned to the island and the people of Santorini are preparing for the upcoming tourist season. Santorini, one of the most beautiful islands in the world, is ready to welcome visitors. “
Focusing on the strategy for sustainable tourism development, the minister underlined: “Sustainability is something we take very seriously, with traffic management measures and emphasis on the expansion of the season, which is already yielding, as we recorded a record of visitors in October 20.”
He made special mention of the issue of reunification of the Parthenon sculpturesstressing: “It is not just a matter of returning artwork, but reunification of a World Heritage Site. Greece remains committed to this goal and works systematically with its international partners. “
The Minister, together with EOT Secretary -General Andrea Fiorentino, held a meeting with the distinguished British historian, writer and presenter of Channel 4 Bettany Hughes, who has devoted much of her career to the emergence of Greek history and culture. At the meeting, which took place at the ambassador in London in the presence of the ambassador, there were ways to strengthen Greece’s international promotion as a destination with a unique cultural heritage and authenticity.
The minister concluded by stressing that the emergence of cultural heritage is a foundation for Greece’s sustainable and quality tourism future.
