V. Kikilias: “We Are Moving Forward with New Port Infrastructure Upgrade Projects” – Safety as a Prerequisite for Development

The link between port infrastructure security and the economy and development, the planning of port upgrade projects, as well as cooperation with the National Development Fund, were among the issues addressed by the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, during his speech at the event organised by the Strategic Contracts Unit, entitled “Critical Infrastructure: Resilience in Motion – The Case of Greek Ports”, held on 5 November 2026.

Regarding the planning of port infrastructure projects and the inclusion of new projects in the development programme, Mr Kikilias stated: “Together with the National Development Fund, we are moving forward with port infrastructure upgrade projects, which will amount to, and potentially exceed, half a billion euros. Several projects have already been included, and I would like to point out that we will also proceed with the inclusion of additional projects in Sitia, Thasos, Lemnos and Sifnos in the development programme.”

The Minister placed particular emphasis on the importance of security for the functioning of global trade and the economy, referring to the impact of wars and energy crises on maritime routes. He also underlined the need to link security with the economy and investment. As he pointed out, “Investors around the world go where security is guaranteed. They go where modern technology and advanced techniques can ensure that the likelihood of something going wrong is low.”

Referring to the role of the state and the conditions required for investment, Mr Kikilias noted: “The state must be modern, flexible and efficient. It must ensure that competition exists, that there are no distortions and that citizens’ rights are not violated. There must be a visionary plan that supports and benefits the many.”

Looking back on his tenure at the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Mr Kikilias also highlighted as a model the cooperation with the then Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF) on programmes worth €2.1 billion, focusing on the launch of tenders, the signing of contracts and the delivery of projects within 15 months.

“We formed a team together with the then HRADF, in cooperation with Civil Protection and Fire Service officers, administrative staff, legal departments and all of you, maintaining daily communication, with specific timetables and under considerable pressure. We operated with transparency and efficiency. I would like to thank you all for that,” he said.

The Minister also referred to the use, for the first time in Greece, of drones and Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Civil Protection during his tenure, highlighting the opportunities offered by new technologies for the monitoring and security of infrastructure.