Thessaloniki, July 7, 2026
Mr. Kikilias was given a tour of the construction site of the Pier 6 expansion and was informed about the investment program of ThPA S.A. by the Company's CEO, Dr. Ioannis Tsaras.
The Port of Thessaloniki was visited yesterday by the Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Mr. Vasilis Kikilias. The Minister was welcomed by the President of the Board of Directors of the Thessaloniki Port Authority S.A., Ms. Angeliki Samara, the CEO, Dr. Ioannis Tsaras and senior executives of the Company. During the visit, Mr. Kikilias, accompanied by his associates and the Member of Parliament for Thessaloniki A, Mr. Dimitris Kouvelas, was given a tour of the construction site of the Pier 6 expansion and was informed about the progress of the works and the main technical and development characteristics of the project. The Pier 6 expansion is the largest project in the history of the Thessaloniki Port Authority S.A. and an investment of strategic importance for Thessaloniki, Northern Greece and the country.
At the same time, the overall development strategy of the Port of Thessaloniki SA and the broader investment program of the Port of Thessaloniki were presented, which includes upgrades to infrastructure, equipment, building facilities, digital applications and services. These investments aim to improve operational efficiency and service quality, while at the same time strengthening the port's interconnection with the urban fabric and contributing to the upgrading of the wider area.
In the same context, the need to accelerate the interconnection projects of the Port of Thessaloniki with the national and European transport networks was highlighted, with emphasis on the road and rail connection of Pier 6. It was pointed out that their timely completion is a crucial factor for the full utilization of the investment and the further strengthening of Thessaloniki's role on the global logistics map.
Furthermore, the development prospects of the Port of Thessaloniki within the framework of the national port policy were discussed, as well as investments in the cruise sector, which enhance the tourist role of the city and the wider region and contribute to the overall upgrade of the country's port system. At the same time, the port's contribution to regional development, employment and entrepreneurship was underlined.
During his visit, Minister Kikilias underlined: "The Port of Thessaloniki is one of the most important development pillars for Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia and Northern Greece as a whole. The development of port infrastructure and activities associated with the port, such as logistics, trade, shipping, cruising, marinas and maritime tourism, creates new prospects for development and employment for the local community. The aim is to create more and better-paid jobs, so that young people can plan their future in their place, with real opportunities for professional and social development. At the same time, the development potential of the port contributes more broadly to the economic development of the region, creating added value for businesses and citizens. In this context, the strategic investment for the expansion of Pier 6 constitutes the central lever for the implementation of this vision, securing the position of the Port of Thessaloniki as a leading commercial and transit hub in Southeastern Europe.”
On the occasion of the presence of the Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, the President of the Board of Directors of the Port of Thessaloniki SA, Ms. Angeliki Samara, stated: "Today's visit by the Minister of Shipping and Island Policy highlights the strategic importance of the Port of Thessaloniki for the development of Northern Greece and the country. Our vision and our goals are common: the further strengthening of the role of the Port of Thessaloniki as an international hub for trade, transport and development. Their achievement requires close cooperation between the Port of Thessaloniki SA, the State and all competent bodies. Through this cooperation, the conditions are created for the full exploitation of the port's development potential, for the benefit of Thessaloniki, Northern Greece and the national economy. The port of Thessaloniki has entered a new phase of development, which reflects the vision and planning of the shareholder and the management for a port that will create value for the city and the region. We are happy that the State, through Mr. Kikilias, supports our investment program, which constitutes a growth multiplier for the entire society.”
Furthermore, the CEO of ThPA S.A., Dr. Ioannis Tsaras, added: “The Minister’s visit takes place during a period of dynamic transformation of the Port of Thessaloniki. The expansion of Pier 6 enhances the port’s capacity and competitiveness, while the connectivity projects are a decisive factor for the full utilization of the investment. At the same time, the importance and criticality of the project for our entire region underline the need to complete our planning without hindrance so that Northern Greece, very soon, will be able to utilize the opportunities offered by Pier 6. Our multidimensional investment plan ensures a future of strong growth for the Port, as well as significant socio-economic benefits, which will stimulate the local society and the national economy.”
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