The Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) has been focused on strengthening Greece’s tourism industry, expanding collaborations with key partners, and promoting Greek destinations to the US market. To achieve these goals, GNTO Secretary General, Mr.Andreas Fiorentinos, has been in New York since Tuesday, 02/12/2025, where he has conducted a series of targeted meetings and actions.

Meeting with the Greek Consul General in New York

One of the main priorities for Mr.Fiorentinos was meeting with the Consul General of Greece in New York, Ms. Iphigenia Kanara, at the Greek Consulate. This meeting centered on GNTO’s priorities in the American market and opportunities for coordinating public diplomacy and tourism outreach actions with the consular authorities.

Strengthening Air Connectivity with Emirates

Another important meeting for Mr.Fiorentinos was with Mr.Matthew Jones, Senior Representative for Emirates in the USA. The main agenda of this meeting was to discuss air connectivity between Greece and the USA and its potential for further development. Discussions included the assessment and prospects of the direct Newark–Athens flight, exploring additional flights to and from the USA, and opportunities for co-marketing campaigns for 2026. They also explored the possibility of organizing fam trips and press trips to promote Greek destinations and attract more high-value visitors. Mr.Fiorentinos stressed the significance of air connectivity in extending the tourism season and attracting more tourists to Greece.

Presentation of Halkidiki at the Greek Consulate

At the Greek Consulate in New York, a presentation of the Municipality of Halkidiki was held for Greek-American media. The Mayor of the Municipality of Aristotelis, Mr.Stelios Valianos, presented the project “Aristotle, Companion,” which highlights the region’s unique cultural heritage and enriches its tourism narrative with an emphasis on experience, history, and authenticity. Attendees included Mr.Fiorentinos, Ms. Kanara, Mr.Jones, and the Presidium of the Pan-Macedonian Association of New York, as well as various Greek-American media outlets.

Positive Outlook for the US Market

The first day of Mr.Fiorentinos’ program was successful, confirming the strong momentum of the US market and the importance of targeted collaborations with institutional and business partners for the further development of Greek tourism. His meetings with key stakeholders of the US tourism industry continue to take place, with the aim of promoting Greece as a top tourist destination.