In a significant development for Greece’s role in European transportation and tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas has been awarded the portfolio for Sustainable Transport and Tourism within the European Commission.

The announcement was made on September 17, 2024, marking a milestone for Greek representation in European affairs.

In a statement, Tzitzikostas expressed his gratitude for the appointment, highlighted the significance of his new responsibilities and shared his vision for the role.

“Transport is the backbone of Europe, having geostrategic importance for critical sectors such as trade, energy, and networking. It ensures the free movement and interconnection of citizens and regions, which is a fundamental right in the European Union,” he said.

European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen congratulating Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the new EU commissioner for Sustainable Transportation and Tourism. Photo source: HOTREC

Greece’s Commissioner expressed enthusiasm for the integration of tourism with transport policy.

“The substantial upgrade of the European tourism policy, and its connection with transport, is a significant achievement,” Tzitzikostas said.

“The European Union is sending a strong signal with a comprehensive approach to development, focusing on strategic investments in crucial infrastructure, green transport, and sustainable tourism. This will enhance the quality of life and connect Europe more closely with its citizens.”

Tourism & travel industry extend congratulations 

Influential bodies within the Greek and European travel and tourism sectors have been quick to extend their congratulations to Tzitzikostas, underscoring the importance of this new role.

SETE: For the first time, there is a distinct tourism portfolio

The Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) has expressed strong support for Apostolos Tzitzikostas’s new role as European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism.

In a statement, SETE highlighted the significance of having a dedicated tourism portfolio at the EU level. “The assumption of the portfolio of Sustainable Transport and Tourism by Apostolos Tzitzikostas is a significant success,” SETE said.

According to SETE, the new portfolio is a landmark achievement for Greece, reflecting the country’s central role in European tourism policies.

SETE emphasized the importance of this role for promoting innovative strategies and sustainable tourism practices. “Tourism deserves its own right in European policies,” SETE added, noting the potential for enhancing Greece’s tourism competitiveness and ensuring balanced economic growth.

HOTREC: Tourism is a dynamic sector crucial to the EU’s economy and cultural heritage

The European Association of Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafés (HOTREC) congratulated Apostolos Tzitzikostas on his appointment, expressing enthusiasm for the new portfolio.

“Congratulations to Apostolos Tzitzikostas on the nomination as European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism,” HOTREC stated.

The association praised the role of tourism and hospitality in the EU’s economy and cultural heritage.

HOTREC added that it looks forward to collaborating with the European Commission to advance the tourism and hospitality sectors, which are vital for local economies and social interactions.

ECTAA: Robust strategies to support sustainable tourism initiatives are needed

The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association (ECTAA) welcomed the creation of the new portfolio, recognizing its importance for the tourism sector. “Europe gets a mandate to promote a resilient and competitive tourism sector,” ECTAA said.

The association noted that the new Commissioner’s mission includes maintaining Europe’s status as a leading tourism destination while ensuring the sector’s resilience and sustainability.

ECTAA emphasized the need for robust strategies and funding opportunities to support sustainable tourism initiatives. “The establishment of this new portfolio should be accompanied by robust strategies that leverage available funding opportunities,” ECTAA stated, looking forward to working with Commissioner Tzitzikostas to shape the future of European tourism.

ACI Europe: A thriving aviation industry is essential

European airport trade body ACI Europe extended its congratulations to Apostolos Tzitzikostas, wishing him success in his upcoming confirmation hearing.

“ACI Europe offers our congratulations to Apostolos Tzitzikostas as the new Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism,” the trade body said.

While acknowledging the limited focus on aviation in the Commissioner’s mission letter, ACI Europe stressed the importance of a thriving aviation industry for sustainable and competitive connectivity.

“A thriving aviation industry is essential for maintaining Europe’s standing as a leading tourist destination,” ACI Europe emphasized, advocating for policies that support effective decarbonization and resilient, green airports.

ETC: New portfolio for EU tourism is ‘fantastic news’

The European Travel Commission (ETC) celebrated Tzitzikostas’ appointment with enthusiasm.

In a tweet, ETC highlighted the significance of the new portfolio for EU tourism. “Fantastic news for #EUtourism!” ETC tweeted.

ETC expressed eagerness to collaborate with Commissioner Tzitzikostas to ensure that tourism drives a sustainable and prosperous future.

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