George Hatzimarkos on Mykonos: "They secretly love it and publicly criticize it generously"

On the occasion of the inclusion of a new project for Mykonos in the Regional Program “South Aegean 2021–2027,” the Governor of the South Aegean, George Hatzimarkos, made a public post on social media that goes beyond the technical aspects of the announcement. He highlights both the value and the contradictions in the way Greeks relate to the island.

Mr. Hatzimarkos notes:

“Today, I will not speak only about the project for which we secured funding. I will also speak about the island where the project will take place — Mykonos — the island that many of our fellow citizens refer to with the phrase ‘we won’t become Mykonos.’ And whoever dares to publicly support the unique achievements of Mykonos is branded as ‘suspicious.’

This is how Greeks treat Mykonos — they secretly love it and criticize it generously.”

“There are those of us who admire a place and a people who, from absolute poverty — there was a time when it was our poorest island — built a reputation and an economy, brought back its children, and became the dream destination of people around the world eager to experience its cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Like every island, Mykonos needs love and care. And respect for what it has achieved, because the global heights it has reached were conquered through hard work in a very tough and competitive environment. And you don’t stay at the top with tricks or by coincidence.

Yes, there are negative aspects that must be addressed, but no other nation would highlight those so excessively over the positives — if Mykonos were their own island.”

New Project: “Improvement of Old Port Facilities in Mykonos”
Within this context, Mr. Hatzimarkos announced the inclusion of the project titled “Improvement of Facilities at the Old Port of Mykonos”, with a budget of €1,235,200, studied by the Municipality of Mykonos and the Municipal Port Authority, and included in the South Aegean Regional Operational Program.

As he explained, the intervention significantly upgrades the port infrastructure of the old harbor, ensures full compliance with the ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code), enhances the port’s functionality, and includes the installation of a 150KW photovoltaic station for energy autonomy and environmental responsibility.

The project includes:
Restoration and expansion of the Old Yacht Club building

Construction of a new two-story building to house the Port Authority and Port Fund services

Installation of modern passenger security systems

Placement of a control booth on the southern pier ("Dilianá")

Photovoltaic (solar) systems in five port buildings

Full integration with public utility networks

The interventions will take place in the areas of "Dilianá", "Yacht Club", and "Ai Nikolakis" of the Old Port.

In closing, the Governor emphasized:

“Mykonos needs strengthened infrastructure, and we are doing everything in our power to make that happen — in Mykonos, as we do for all our islands.”