The growth prospects for Greek tourism, the modernisation of transport infrastructure and efforts to boost business competitiveness, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises, were discussed by European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas and members of the board of the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) at a meeting on Wednesday.
The meeting also focused on simplifying procedures, improving access to finance and accelerating the development of European cross-border transport networks, so that Greece can make the most of its geographical position and strengthen its role as an international transport hub.
The meeting was also attended by Zacharias Giakoumis, head of the European Commission Representation in Greece.
Tzitzikostas: Less bureaucracy and more opportunities for growth
Mr Tzitzikostas described the ACCI as a valuable institutional partner, saying it gives business a voice, conveys the market’s real needs and helps shape policies that boost competitiveness and growth.
“At a time of major change, close co-operation between the European institutions and the business community is more important than ever. Our aim is to turn European initiatives into tangible results for businesses, with less bureaucracy, easier access to finance and more opportunities for growth,” he said.
In this way, he noted, European policies can respond to the economy’s real needs and create the conditions for a more competitive and outward-looking European business sector.
Bratakos: Tourism that generates more value
ACCI president Giannis Bratakos stressed the importance of the Greek commissioner’s presence, saying it offered an opportunity for substantive dialogue on two sectors that are crucial to the economy: tourism and transport.
Referring to the Greek economy’s momentum, he said “the next challenge is to turn this momentum into more productive activity, greater added value and stronger Greek businesses”.
On tourism, he highlighted the need for a model that increases the value generated per visitor and is more closely linked to domestic production, manufacturing, the agri-food sector and trade.
Referring to the forthcoming first European strategy for sustainable tourism, he stressed that “it is particularly important for this strategy to place substantial emphasis on small and medium-sized tourism businesses, by providing accessible financing tools and simpler procedures”.
He also emphasised the need for closer links between tourism in Athens and the local market. This will require better urban transport, modern connections to the airport and port, and adequate conference facilities, he said.
Rail and road links in focus
On transport, Mr Bratakos said Greece’s geographical position and shipping offered significant opportunities, but these depended on reliable rail and road links.
He welcomed European initiatives on the Trans-European Transport Networks, as well as the joint action plan drawn up by Greece, Bulgaria and Romania. He also stressed the need for projects to move forward under a clear plan.
“What is needed now is clear timetables, secured funding and effective co-ordination, so that businesses can plan their investments,” he said.
In conclusion, the ACCI president set out as key priorities upgrading small and medium-sized tourism businesses, speeding up major infrastructure projects and cross-border links, and ensuring the green transition is backed by adequate funding and realistic timetables.
“The presence of a Greek commissioner with a deep understanding of our country’s needs is particularly important in this effort. The ACCI will be an active and reliable partner,” he said.
Source: AMNA