Crete Pushes EU on Modern Transport to Drive Regional Development

Tuesday, 2 June 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

The Region of Crete presented its position on transport and regional development at the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR), held in Patras. Regional officials argued that modern, accessible transport infrastructure is a fundamental requirement for balanced economic development across island and peripheral regions of Europe. Crete, as one of Greece's largest and most visited islands, faces ongoing challenges in connecting its eastern and western areas efficiently. The region is pushing for EU-level recognition that islands require dedicated transport investment to compete equally with mainland territories. For visitors, this debate has direct relevance: Crete's road network, ferry connections, and the long-anticipated Kastelli international airport (expected to open in 2028) are all part of this broader infrastructure push that will shape how tourists move across the island in coming years.