Greek Shipping Minister Vasili Kikilias announces port upgrades in Nafpaktos, Mesologgi and Astakos

Minister of Shipping and Island Policy Vasili Kikilias visited the Aetolia‑Acarnania towns of Nafpaktos, Mesologgi and Astakos. He met local mayors, the regional deputy governor and heads of the Port Authority to discuss accelerating planned port infrastructure projects and broader maritime‑related investment.

Kikilias emphasized the link between the sea‑based professions and regional economic growth, saying “κινούνται οι διαδικασίες και προσπαθούμε να είναι ταχύτατες, έτσι ώστε ό,τι έχει χωροθετηθεί να προχωρήσει”. He highlighted the potential of the new deep‑water Nautical Industrial Zone (NABIPE) at Astakos to create well‑paid jobs and attract related sectors such as shipbuilding, energy, yachting and tourism.

The minister pledged that upgrades will be tailored to local conditions, respecting the area’s cultural and environmental heritage while aiming to boost the tourism product and overall competitiveness of Greece’s maritime sector.