Greece’s Regional Tourism Council Gets Upgraded

Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni with Nikos Hardalias. Photo source: Tourism Ministry.

The new responsibilities of the recently set up Regional Tourism Council and joint actions to promote Attica, topped the agenda of talks between Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Nikos Hardalias, who is running for Attica regional governor in the upcoming elections next month.

Kefalogianni said a cabinet meeting agreed to upgrade the role of the Regional Tourism Council enabling it to play an active role in decision- and policy-making and to participate in joint actions.

Among others, the Greek tourism minister referred to “a new beginning” for the country’s  tourism sector under the latest “national strategic plan for a more competitive, resilient and sustainable tourism sector focusing on social cohesion and balance”.

Additionally, Kefalogianni and Hardalias discussed ways to work together towards the implementation of the plan and the need for targeted initiatives and the quick absorption and allocation of EU and national funds for necessary tourism infrastructure.

GNTO Secretary General Dimitris Fragakis; GNTO President Angela Gerekou; Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni; Nikos Hardalias and Deputy Tourism Minister Elena Rapti. Photo source: Tourism Ministry.

Hardalias also referred to actions and initiatives as well as cooperation with the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) for the promotion of Attica and the introduction of new destinations and tourism products.

After expressing his satisfaction with the decision to upgrade the Regional Tourism Council, Hardalias referred to the sector’s significant contribution to the economy, development, and employment.

“The increase in arrivals and revenues demonstrates that tourism has unlimited potential. Attica, one of the main destinations, can increase its traffic all year round. By cooperating, we can strengthen the promotion of Attica, plan new actions, contribute to the development of thematic tourism and encourage new investments,” said Hardalias.