Investments in the shipbuilding industry will be considered of a strategic nature, said the Minister of Development, Takis Theodorikakos, during his visit to the Elefsina Shipyards today and added that the field of shipbuilding will offer more and more opportunities for safe work for young people who want to work and produce in this space.
The minister, accompanied by the general secretary of Private Investments, Stellina Chiarapi, visited the Elefsina Shipyards and met with the founder and managing director of the ONEX Technologies group, Panos Xenokostas, as well as with the United States Ambassador to our country, George Tsouni, ” whose contribution was a catalyst for the implementation of the large investment made in the shipyards” as noted in a statement by the Ministry of Development.
Mr. Theodorikakos stated: “The shipbuilding industry, the blue economy of our country, is at the center of the new production model. It is not possible for a country like Greece, which is a powerful naval power, not to have an equally powerful shipbuilding and shipbuilding industry. That is why the Government supports with all its efforts the new plan for the shipbuilding industry.
ONEX, which has been established for 1.5 years here at the shipyards of Elefsina, which are now operating normally, has achieved a turnover estimated at the two shipyards in 2024 to exceed 120 million euros. It is great that 450 workers are working and being paid normally. And we are creating a new dynamic for the shipyard.
I would like to give two messages: new investments in the shipbuilding industry will be considered by the Ministry of Development and our government to be of a strategic nature, with all that this entails to facilitate their implementation and speed and dynamics and result so that significantly increase the influence and effect on the entire Greek economy. The second is these young children who are trained here under the DYPA programs of the Ministry of Labour. The field of shipbuilding and shipbuilding will offer more and more opportunities for work, safe work for young people who want to work and produce in this area.”
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**Interview with Minister of Development Takis Theodorikakos on the Future of the Shipbuilding Industry**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Theodorikakos. You recently visited the Elefsina Shipyards, where you spoke about the strategic importance of investments in the shipbuilding sector. Can you elaborate on what you meant by “strategic nature”?
**Minister Theodorikakos:** Thank you for having me. When I refer to investments in the shipbuilding industry as being of a strategic nature, I mean that they are essential for the growth of our economy and the creation of sustainable jobs. The shipbuilding sector has historically played a significant role in our economic landscape, and by enhancing our investments here, we aim to bolster our global competitiveness and secure our maritime interests.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that this sector will offer more opportunities for young people. What specific initiatives are being introduced to attract and train the youth for careers in shipbuilding?
**Minister Theodorikakos:** We are committed to creating programs that not only introduce young people to the shipbuilding industry but also provide them with the necessary skills and training. This includes partnerships with vocational schools and universities to offer specialized programs in maritime engineering, design, and technology. By doing so, we hope to inspire a new generation of skilled workers who can contribute to and thrive in this industry.
**Interviewer:** During your visit to the Elefsina Shipyards, what were your impressions, and what do you see as the biggest opportunities going forward?
**Minister Theodorikakos:** My visit to Elefsina was inspiring. I met with passionate workers and entrepreneurs who are dedicated to revitalizing this important industry. The biggest opportunities I see lie in innovation and sustainability—embracing advanced technologies and greener practices that will position Greek shipbuilding favorably on the international stage. This transformation can attract both domestic and foreign investments, driving economic growth.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, how do you envision the future of the shipbuilding industry in Greece in the coming years?
**Minister Theodorikakos:** I envision a dynamic and robust shipbuilding industry that not only leads in production but also in innovation and sustainability. By prioritizing investments and fostering talent, I believe Greece can become a leading hub in maritime industries within Europe and beyond. Our commitment to this sector will strengthen our economy and create safer, more stable job opportunities for future generations.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Theodorikakos, for your insights on this vital industry.
**Minister Theodorikakos:** Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for shipbuilding in Greece, and I look forward to seeing our initiatives come to fruition.