During a working meeting at the Maximos Mansion, New Democracy Dodecanese MP Giannis Pappas presented a series of key issues affecting the Dodecanese islands to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, urging the swift implementation of government commitments announced during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Rhodes.
The meeting reviewed the progress of projects already underway, with the shared objective of turning government announcements into tangible initiatives that will improve residents’ daily lives and strengthen the islands’ long-term development prospects.
A central topic was the extension of the reduced VAT regime to Rhodes. According to the press release, Mr. Pappas presented documented proposals that are already under institutional review by the competent government authorities, stressing that the reduced VAT rate is a necessary measure to offset the higher costs of island life and maintain the competitiveness of the local economy.
The discussion also focused on long-standing bureaucratic obstacles, including spatial planning issues, the recognition of the road network and overlapping responsibilities between public services such as the Archaeological Service and Urban Planning authorities. Mr. Pappas emphasized the need for a modern and efficient administrative framework that safeguards cultural heritage while facilitating investment and development.
Healthcare, justice services and sports infrastructure across the Dodecanese were also high on the agenda, with particular emphasis on strengthening public services, improving infrastructure and creating modern sports facilities for young people and local communities.
Concluding the meeting, Giannis Pappas stressed that island residents need a state that supports rather than hinders them, arguing that the real strengthening of the Dodecanese lies in maintaining vibrant, sustainable and well-served islands through modern infrastructure, a strong economy, quality public services and expanded opportunities for younger generations.
