Greece has called on Chinese shipping company COSCO, the operator of Piraeus Port, to elevate the passenger facilities at the port to improve services and the quality of life in Piraeus city.
Greece’s largest port, serving approximately 20 million passengers annually and handling thousands of vehicles and travelers daily, is in urgent need of upgrades. The country has requested COSCO Shipping to modernize port infrastructure.
Greek Maritime Minister Vasilis Kikilias underscored the pressing need for the Chinese company to invest promptly in the port’s infrastructure. He conveyed the message during a recent meeting with Fang Qiu, the Chinese Ambassador to Greece.
“It is critical that the Chinese side moves fast with much-needed investments,” Kikilias said. The investments can be implemented quickly, at a minimal cost, and benefit both travelers and the local community in Piraeus.
The Ministry outlined several infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to water supply systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, construction of additional passenger terminals and shelters, implementation of advanced security systems, and improved route information services.
Piraeus Port, the primary port of Athens and one of Europe’s busiest, serves as a gateway to Greece’s popular eastern islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. Currently equipped with 12 ferry departure gates, it covers a vast area. Despite its size, the port is now strained, with ministers describing the situation as ‘unbearable.’
Reports indicate that since the Chinese firm took a majority stake in the Piraeus Port Authority in 2016, efforts to enhance the port’s passenger facilities have been minimal. By 2021, COSCO Shipping had increased its ownership to 67%. Under its management, Piraeus has emerged as a crucial transshipment hub in the Mediterranean.
During the talks, it was decided that COSCO would initiate essential investments in Piraeus Port, focusing on the shipbuilding and repair sector detailed in the master plan as part of COSCO’s broader investment in the port.
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