Deputy Regional Governor of the South Aegean Apostolos Asprakis issued the following statement reflecting on his term:
“Two years of political courage and constructive service in the South Aegean, where the Region is working to show that island geography is no excuse, but a powerful incentive to act. Our policy is not theoretical. It is action, reflected in infrastructure, social care and solutions to everyday problems. The Region's projects speak louder than statements. There are no excuses. There never were.
“Looking back on two years of intensive, productive work and service to society, I believe the period from 2023 to 2025 sent a clear political message: the South Aegean Region operates with a plan, determination and unity. It promotes transparent decision-making, faster delivery of projects, stronger administrative effectiveness and action alongside residents, rather than from behind a desk.
“These past two years were not simply a period of routine administration intended to change our islands' appearance, pace and prospects. They were marked by bold decisions, substantial work and a deepening relationship with society. We did more than manage circumstances. We dared to take decisions others would never have taken, delivering projects rooted in island life rather than promises, always putting people and our islands' needs first.
“During the term, important interventions upgraded infrastructure, supported development, and strengthened civil protection and social care. Our central aims were to support islanders, honour our commitments to society, improve quality of life and ensure transparency.
“My excellent cooperation with Regional Governor Giorgos Hatzimarkos was central to the success of my two-year term. This was not a procedural relationship, but an alliance of responsibility; not a formality, but a political choice based on a shared vision. Together, we have charted a course for a Region that works hard and tirelessly, confronts difficulties where necessary and ultimately delivers.
“We did not work together to share out roles, but to share responsibilities, shoulder burdens together and prevent anyone from hiding behind excuses. This cooperation broke through inertia and produced results. It listened to society and responded with projects — projects with a heart. Work across the Dodecanese and the Cyclades is not simply a set of numbers: it gives residents a new lease of life.
“I also thank my colleagues and the Region's management and staff for their cooperation. Through participation, planning, persistence, daily contact, a shared vision and coordinated effort, we deliver work that meets residents' expectations, solves problems and strengthens the Region's presence on every island. We continue with the same energy.
“Contact with residents, organisations, professionals and local communities is another cornerstone of our efforts. We supported vulnerable groups, local associations, volunteering and solidarity initiatives. Our continuous presence on the islands, open communication and support for social services and initiatives helped strengthen social cohesion.
“Improvements to health and education services, civil protection measures against fires and floods, regeneration schemes, environmental protection, tourism support, critical infrastructure, harbour works and facilities, and technical interventions all demonstrate that words have been followed by action.
“On the smaller islands in particular, where every project counts twice, the outlook sends a clear message: no island is left behind and no small island stands alone.
“You cannot fool society. People see and judge for themselves. On the islands, residents know who confines themselves to public relations and who works; who stands beside them in difficult times, answers the telephone, takes action and solves problems, and who merely issues statements.
“In the South Aegean we have demonstrated something simple: effectiveness is a political stance. Politics means responsibility, not merely communications games. This is the course we follow. People feel that the Region is not an impersonal mechanism. It consists of people who walk alongside them, act and share their concerns; people who deliver meaningful projects, rather than simply technical paperwork, and development with political accountability rather than generalities.
“That is the greatest political achievement of the past two years. While some practise politics from their offices, the South Aegean Region is present on the islands: among the problems, crises, fires, floods and construction projects.
“Politics is not an empty honorary title. It is not suited to those who seek an easy, comfortable life. It is for those who accept responsibility and are not afraid to confront difficulties.
“For two years, alongside Regional Governor Giorgos Hatzimarkos, we have fought for every island, large and small. That journey continues with greater energy and political purpose, and a single message: the South Aegean will not go backwards.
“We continue with greater determination, a clear direction and respect for the people of the South Aegean. Personally, I have not measured these two years in months. I have measured them in people: faces, sincere handshakes and eyes looking for solutions and hope.
“I believe I stood beside society, because that is the essence of politics. I continue with the same conviction, the same passion and still greater determination. The South Aegean is its people, and they deserve everything.”
Apostolos Asprakis, Deputy Regional Governor of the South Aegean.
