Greece and Türkiye Pledge to Boost Maritime Connections and Tourism

Greek Shipping Minister Christos Stylianides and Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu. Photo source: Shipping Ministry

During his recent visit to Istanbul, Greek Shipping Minister Christos Stylianides highlighted the importance of the growing collaboration between Greece and Türkiye in the maritime tourism and shipping sectors.

The visit, which took place as part of the Sixth Joint Maritime Committee of Greece and Türkiye, aimed to further enhance the positive relations between the two countries, particularly focusing on maritime connections and the seven-day visa program that makes it easier for Turkish citizens to visit Greek islands.

In discussions with Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, Stylianides expressed that the outcomes of their meeting should serve as a “roadmap” for future Greek-Turkish cooperation. Key areas of focus include improving maritime connections for the transport of goods and passengers between Greek and Turkish ports.

“Greece and Türkiye are not just neighbors; we are partners, especially in the shipping sector. Naturally, our goal is to strengthen this partnership,” said Stylianides.

Photo source: Shipping Ministry

The two sides agreed to advance their cooperation in three main areas:

– Strengthening existing maritime connections that provide mutual benefits.
– Supporting the fast-track visa program for Turkish citizens visiting Greek islands, which saw the issuance of 100,000 visas during its pilot phase in 2024.
– Promoting maritime tourism, particularly yacht and cruise tourism, to stimulate economic growth in coastal communities.

Additionally, Greece and Türkiye reaffirmed their commitment to mutual support and collaboration within the framework of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

“The maritime sector remains a key pillar of the ‘positive agenda’ in Greek-Turkish relations,” concluded Stylianides, emphasizing the significance of this meeting as a major step forward in strengthening bilateral cooperation in the shipping industry.