PASOK Dodecanese MP Giorgos Nikitiadis, a former deputy minister for culture and tourism and the party's parliamentary development spokesperson, has welcomed Nisyros' official inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks network. Nikitiadis comes from the island.
The award of UNESCO Global Geopark status at an official ceremony at UNESCO headquarters in Paris marks a historic moment for Nisyros, the Dodecanese and Greece.
The international recognition acknowledges the island's unique geological, natural and cultural value, combining its active volcanic landscape, distinctive biodiversity, long history and authentic island identity.
Nikitiadis first congratulated the people of Nisyros for preserving their attachment to the island, protecting its unique landscape and consistently opposing exploitation that could alter its character.
He also congratulated Nisyros Mayor Christofis Koronaios, the municipal authority, geopark scientific lead and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens professor Evi Nomikou, Nisyros Geopark director Vangelis Tasoulas and everyone whose work and scientific expertise contributed to this achievement.
Nikitiadis said, “Nisyros' inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks network is a historic moment for our island. As someone from Nisyros, I feel immense joy and pride that the island of Polyvotis, its volcano, caldera, thermal springs, Panagia Spiliani, Panagia Kyra, Palaiokastro and its people is now internationally recognised as a place of unique geological, natural and cultural value.
“This distinction belongs above all to the people of Nisyros, to those who have loved and protected the island and defended its natural environment.
“I congratulate the people of Nisyros on this great day, as well as Mayor Christofis Koronaios, the municipal authority, Professor Evi Nomikou, Vangelis Tasoulas, the scientific team, local organisations and everyone who contributed to this significant success.
“Nisyros becomes the first and only UNESCO Global Geopark in the Dodecanese. This presents a major opportunity for the island, tourism, education, research, the local economy and sustainable development.
“It also carries a great responsibility. Protecting the natural environment, promoting cultural heritage, supporting residents and respecting Nisyros' authentic character must be central to every next step.
“This recognition opens a new chapter for Nisyros. Our island has shown that history, nature, science and people can coexist and create a model of development that respects the island and future generations.”
