ATHENS — "The state, the government and the state mechanism were, from the first moment, at the side of the quake-stricken. We came here today to help find solutions and to support the local authorities, the residents and the businesses," stated Shipping and Island Policy Minister Yiannis Plakiotakis on Wednesday, while visiting areas of Sitia, Crete, in the aftermath of Tuesday's strong 6.3 Richter earthquake in the region.

The minister said that there were no injuries as a result of the quake and that the region of Lasithi had managed to withstand the earthquake.

He called on the residents to follow the orders and recommendations of the civil protection agency and reassured them of the state's full and effective support.

Plakiotakis also made it known that shipowner Thanassis Martinos will fully restore the historic church of St.Nicholas in Xerokambos, Sitia, which was severely damaged by the earthquake.