Corfu, December 15, 2025 – Stefanos Gkikas, Deputy Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, delivered a keynote address at the General Assembly of the Panhellenic Association of Shipyards (Tarsanades), held at the Technical Chamber of Greece. In his speech, Mr. Gkikas underscored the pivotal role of shipyards in safeguarding and advancing Greece’s rich naval heritage and the invaluable craft of traditional wooden shipbuilding.
Government’s Commitment to Naval Heritage
Mr. Gkikas highlighted the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy’s unwavering commitment to the preservation and promotion of Greece’s naval and cultural heritage, asserting that shipyards play a crucial role in this endeavor. He stated, “At the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, the preservation and promotion of our naval and cultural heritage is a significant obligation, in which shipyards and boatyards hold a pivotal role.”
Key Initiatives and Interventions
Recognizing the importance of this role, Mr. Gkikas detailed a series of substantive and targeted interventions undertaken by the Ministry in recent years:
- Institutionalization of Shipyards: Establishing a clear legal framework for the definition and operation of shipyards and boatyards.
- Environmental Licensing: Resolving long-standing issues concerning environmental licensing for these facilities.
- National Shipyard Registry: Creating a national registry for shipyards to ensure organized record-keeping and oversight of the sector.
- Coastal Zone Regulations: Implementing clear and functional regulations for the concession of spaces in coastal areas and port land zones.
- Training Initiatives: Launching initiatives for the education and training of new technicians in the field of shipbuilding and traditional wooden boat building.
These measures aim to support the industry and its workforce, while also highlighting the multifaceted benefits for local communities, employment, tourism, and the national economy.
Support for the Industry and Local Communities
Stefanos Gkikas further emphasized that the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, under Minister Vassilis Kikilias, actively supports businesses and individuals within the sector. This support, he noted, brings significant advantages to local communities, boosts employment, enhances tourism, and contributes positively to the national economy.
Meeting with Technical Chamber President
On the sidelines of the Assembly, the Deputy Minister met with the President of the Technical Chamber of Greece, Giorgos Stasinos. Their discussion centered on the recently agreed-upon creation of the “Repository of Preserved Buildings of the Aegean,” a project aimed at documenting and protecting the architectural heritage of the Aegean islands.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to cultural preservation, extending beyond naval heritage to encompass the built environment of Greece’s island regions. The collaboration between the Ministry and the Technical Chamber of Greece signifies a concerted effort to safeguard and promote the country’s unique cultural assets.
The Deputy Minister’s address and the Ministry’s ongoing initiatives underscore the strategic importance of the shipbuilding sector not only as an economic driver but also as a custodian of Greece’s rich maritime history and traditions. The focus on training new technicians ensures the continuity of these vital skills for future generations.
The Panhellenic Association of Shipyards continues to serve as a crucial institutional pillar, advocating for the interests of its members and working in conjunction with government bodies to ensure the sustainability and growth of the traditional shipbuilding industry.
Source: https://www.startmediacorfu.gr/stefanos-gkikas-i-diatirisi-kai-i-anadeiksi-tis-naftikis-paradosis-kai-politistikis-mas-klironomias-apotelei-simantiki-ypochreosi/
