Greek new shipping minister arrives with ‘much to be done’

The Greek government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis announced on Friday the new government lineup. The prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis promoted younger-generation officials into key ministerial and deputy ministerial positions, aiming to showcase a different version of an administration.

The “generational shift” in government is evident through a series of appointments where ministers and deputy ministers fall within the 50-something or 40-something age brackets.

A portfolio full of challenges awaits the new Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, 51-year-old, Vasilis Kikilias who replaces Christos Stylianides. A portfolio linked to international geopolitical developments and the “green transition” but also to ferry ticket prices, safety on board ships, the management of significant funds and to attract more tonnage to the Greek flag.

Domestically, the strengthening of the Greek registry is always one of the most important priorities of each Minister of Shipping.

Therefore, the new Minister will need to take measures and follow strategies to make the Greek registry more attractive even though the Greek registry was and remains strong.

Given the size of the country’s coastal shipping fleet,