Nikos Tachiaos calls for realistic infrastructure prioritization in Greece

Nikos Tachiaos, the Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, emphasized the need for realism, prioritization, and secured funding to ensure the success of future infrastructure projects. Speaking at the 9th Infrastructure and Transport Conference – ITC 2026 in Athens, Tachiaos stated that projects must respond to citizen needs and economic realities rather than being ends in themselves.

Tachiaos highlighted the critical role of European Union funding, noting that EU support has enabled significant leaps in Greek infrastructure. He stressed the importance of pursuing new funding tools, such as climate funds and military mobility, as the Recovery Fund has concluded and was not originally designed primarily for public works.

Regarding national resources, the Deputy Minister noted they are limited. He identified the upcoming ESPA program as a priority for securing funds, provided there is rapid absorption. He also discussed public-private partnerships (PPPs) and concessions as useful tools, though he cautioned that PPPs are not a universal solution and that concessions require national resource participation to remain sustainable.