Regarding strategic investments that ensure the country’s internal security, the Minister emphasized that tenders are currently underway for the supply of drones, sensors, satellite imaging, infrared cameras, and specialized technological data for the Hellenic Coast Guard.

“If the Strait of Hormuz is closed — which is the worst-case scenario — it will affect the global economy, not just shipping. This is because the global commercial fleet, which transports 90% of world trade, would need to go around Africa to reach European, American, and other ports,” stated Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Vassilis Kikilias.

In an interview on SKAI’s “Simera” program with journalists Dimitris Oikonomou and Akis Pavlopoulos, Kikilias stressed that the situation is highly volatile, “as oil prices have risen by 7-10% in recent days due to this major crisis.”

“We are studying our moves very carefully”

Kikilias reiterated that the top priority remains our seafarers and ships, noting:

“On average, there are 170 to 180 Greek-owned ships in the wider Persian Gulf area, and 70 to 80 vessels pass through the Strait of Hormuz every six to eight hours, including 15 to 20 under the Greek flag. We are studying our actions very carefully. The Ministry’s Operations Center issues notices — that is, warning alerts — at any given moment to all our vessels and shipowners.”
He also confirmed that, so far, there have been no attacks on any Greek vessels in the region.

Strategic investments in internal security

Regarding internal security investments, the Minister said tenders are in progress for the acquisition of drones, sensors, satellite images, infrared cameras, and specialized tech data for the Hellenic Coast Guard.

“This is so that the Ministry’s Operations Center can keep its eyes on the Eastern Aegean and see everything,” he said.

He added:

“In the 15 months I served at Civil Protection, following the Prime Minister’s directive, I implemented the AIGIS program — the largest procurement program in Civil Protection history. Now we are State of the Art, interoperable with AI, Engage 112, etc. I have the same obligation — and I will fulfill it — in the coming months at the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, and go even further. Port infrastructure, which are major projects requiring environmental permits, is our responsibility to advance. Shipping, tourism, services, and real estate — these are essentially the backbone of the country’s revenues.”

New Marina in Western Attica

Speaking on investments in marinas and the development of yachting, the Minister said:

“The yachting cluster is growing, and I’m pleased about that. Since it’s growing, we should be generating revenues like the Turks do with their marinas. Soon, the Prime Minister and I will announce a new marina within the Attica region — a new marina in Western Attica, because we believe that this area deserves upgrading. The people of Western Attica have a right to access these developments, as do yachts, mega-yachts, and — why not — commercial spaces. There are large-scale business activities tied to the required facilities and infrastructure. The entire region is being transformed.”

On the announced strike in Patras

Regarding the announced strike in Patras, Kikilias made it clear:

“The state is obliged to act against those who violate the law. Unfortunately, we must enforce the law — the Port Authority of Patras has already spoken with the Prosecutor, a case file has been opened, and there will be a court date — the same applies to anyone obstructing transportation. Especially now, during the tourism season, the peak of the year for us, when the country expects maximum revenue, some people should avoid causing unnecessary disruption.”

He emphasized that the government respects and supports Greek seafarers, and added:

“The port is open and operating normally. All ships are departing from Patras to Italy at full capacity, so both truck drivers and travelers to and from Greece are being served — with the exception of one company, flying the Greek flag and employing Greek sailors.”