Zeybek calls for "equality" in Alexandroupoli–Keratsini shipping route support
Hüseyin Zeybek, MP for Xanthi with the New Left party, has raised concerns in Parliament regarding the planned new maritime line between Alexandroupoli and Keratsini. He criticized the decision to offer free freight transport support exclusively to businesses in the Evros region, thereby excluding neighboring Rhodope and Xanthi prefectures. Zeybek submitted a written question to the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy on the matter.
"Deepening Regional Inequality"
Zeybek emphasized that limiting the transport subsidy to Evros businesses contradicts the goal of integrated development for the Thrace region. He pointed out that excluding businesses in Rhodope and Xanthi reinforces a sense of inequality among the local populations.
In his parliamentary question, Zeybek stated:
"The new commercial shipping line between Alexandroupoli and Keratsini, including intermediate stops at Chios and Lesvos, is a positive step toward revitalizing regional trade. However, restricting free freight support solely to businesses operating in Evros increases perceptions of inequality and undermines the broader development goals for Thrace."
While acknowledging that Evros, severely affected by recent wildfires, deserves special support, Zeybek stressed that Rhodope and Xanthi face structural challenges and transportation issues as well.
He also highlighted that the continued exclusion of Rhodope and Xanthi from recent development laws and support programs erodes public trust in central government among Thrace residents.
Questions to the Minister
Zeybek posed the following key questions to the Minister:
- Does the government plan to expand the free freight support to include businesses in Rhodope and Xanthi for a fairer regional development approach?
- Is there a comprehensive and long-term development plan by the Ministry for businesses in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, aiming to go beyond fragmented and selective support measures?
- What concrete steps does the Ministry intend to take to prevent the deepening of regional inequalities and to restore local businesses' trust in public administration?
