Theocharis: Thessaloniki–İzmir ferry link can restart if economically viable
Speaking to AMNA following the recent visit of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Turkiye, Theocharis noted that the Joint Declaration between Athens and Ankara creates the framework and political will to restore the route. However, no launch date has been set.
In the coming period, feasibility studies and coordination among the relevant ministries, stakeholders and shipping companies are expected to move forward under the Greece–Turkiye Positive Agenda mechanism.
Theocharis stressed that the key factors are both political and economic. Improved bilateral relations and high-level political support create favorable conditions for resolving technical and administrative issues. Nevertheless, the route must demonstrate clear commercial appeal and meet genuine tourism and trade demand. Careful regulatory and legal preparation will also be required.
While the Joint Declaration focuses on a direct link between the two ports, possible intermediate stops could be examined in a future feasibility study. Such an option could boost tourism in island destinations and enhance the route’s prospects, he said, adding that final decisions will depend on technical data, market demand and business considerations.
At the same time, both sides are seeking to deepen economic cooperation through new mechanisms and business forums aimed at attracting investment and expanding trade. During the 6th High-Level Cooperation Council, a Joint Cooperation Declaration was signed between Enterprise Greece and the Investment Office of the Turkish Presidency, providing for the organization of an annual Investment Forum to be held alternately in the two countries.
Theocharis described the recent meeting between the Greek Prime Minister and the Turkish President in Ankara as positive and constructive, emphasizing stability and the maintenance of “calm waters” as the basis for further cooperation. Despite existing differences, both sides agreed to focus on areas of common interest, including the economy, investment, transport and natural risk management, with the aim of building trust and delivering tangible benefits.
