Dodecanese MP Manos Konsolas, who chairs Parliament's Committee on the Regions, held a working meeting with Mr Theodoratos, president of the Association of Passenger Shipping Companies.
Their discussion focused on the strategic role of ferries as the sea routes that guarantee connections between Greece's island regions. Konsolas said improving connectivity was a national priority, inseparable from the islands' social and economic cohesion and survival.
Ferry services were identified as a central pillar of year-round island life and a driving force behind tourism and social development. At Konsolas' initiative, the parliamentary Committee on the Regions will hold a dedicated session on ferry services.
“The green transition must not create problems for the competitiveness and future prospects of Greek coastal shipping, because these would have adverse consequences for island regions,” he said.
Konsolas called for fleet renewal with vessels using new alternative fuels that reduce operating costs. He also said incentives should be introduced for building new ships alongside the necessary port infrastructure.
“Ferry services are linked to the survival of island regions, since for around 90 islands the ship is the only means of connection with mainland Greece and other islands,” he added.
