Tsipras visits Lesbos, recalls Polytechnic days with regional governor

Alexis Tsipras, the former Greek Prime Minister, visited the island of Lesbos, engaging with local officials and residents. During a meeting with the Regional Governor of the North Aegean, a warm atmosphere prevailed, marked by a personal anecdote. The governor recalled Tsipras as a former student when he taught at the Polytechnic, eliciting smiles before discussions on regional issues commenced.

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He was my student at the Polytechnic.

Tsipras highlighted cultural and infrastructure projects planned or initiated during his SYRIZA government's tenure, citing the restoration of the Valide Mosque in Mytilene as a significant example. He also pointed to interventions aimed at upgrading infrastructure across the North Aegean islands, but noted that a persistent challenge remains the lack of adequate staffing for these facilities.

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Ah, another student of mine.

The former premier also championed the "transport equivalent" policy, a reform he attributed to the late Nektarios Santorinos, designed to reduce transportation costs for islanders and businesses. However, Tsipras criticized the current government, alleging that delayed payments for this measure undermine its effectiveness and burden island residents and enterprises.

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the transport equivalent was one of the most important reforms for island Greece under the SYRIZA government.

Following his meeting with the governor, Tsipras continued his visit to western Lesbos. There, he was scheduled to meet with livestock farmers in the local Municipal Council hall. This engagement underscored his continued focus on regional issues and the concerns of agricultural communities.

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it was an innovative policy conceived and promoted by the late Nektarios Santorinos.