GNTO Secretary General Dimitris Fragakis Resigns

The Secretary General of the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), Dimitris Fragakis, announced on Monday his intention to step down from his position.

In his resignation announcement, Fragakis stated that he felt the “cycle” of his tenure at the organization had “come to an end.” He also informed Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of his decision in a letter, expressing gratitude for the honor of serving the GNTO.

Fragakis, the longest-serving Secretary General of the GNTO, assumed the role in 2019, succeeding Konstantinos Tsegas. During his tenure, Fragakis effectively managed the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis impacting tourism.

“I took over the GNTO in 2019 when tourism was performing exceptionally well, and I am handing it over with the industry achieving its highest-ever record in arrivals and revenue this year,” Fragakis stated. He added that the GNTO’s success “was not coincidental”, highlighting the series of crises Greece has faced, including the significant health crisis that altered many aspects of the industry.

“But through the challenges we encountered, we emerged stronger. The country’s international image has been enhanced, and our tourism product has evolved significantly. In this collective national effort, the GNTO has left a substantial mark.”

Archive photo of Dimitris Fragakis in conversation with Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

During Fragakis’ tenure, the GNTO underwent significant changes, modernized its operations, and evolved.

“In these last five years, the GNTO has grown stronger and is now appreciated and respected within and outside the borders. Perhaps this is the greatest legacy for the future,” he noted.

Fragakis also extended his gratitude to the organization’s president, Angela Gerekou, for the “excellent cooperation,” as well as to the members of the Board of Directors.

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni accepted Fragakis’ resignation. GNTO Vice President Konstantinos Zikos will temporarily assume the position.