CHANIA, Greece — Tourism Minister Haris Theocharis sent a message of optimism over the course of tourism from Chania, Crete, on Friday.

Theocharis who is currently meeting with tourism agencies from Chania at the city's chamber said "It is an optimistic day. An optimistic moment. We are celebrating the opening of Greek tourism."

Theocharis referred to the planning for the opening of Greek tourism and to the uncertainty – as he said – that existed two months ago. "The fact that we have opened tourism, the fact that we see smiling faces, gives us optimism. We are here despite the difficulties. We will go well for sure," he stressed.

The meeting is attended by Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) Secretary General Dimitris Fragakis, ND MPs Dora Bakoyannis and Manousos Voloudakis, the Deputy Regional Governor of Crete Nikos Kalogeris and the President of the Chania Chamber, Antonis Rokakis.

Outside the meeting place, members of the restaurants association and employees of the tourism industry gathered, asking for measures to be taken to support and secure their jobs.

The Minister of Tourism met with a delegation of the gathered people and discussed with them the efforts and measures that have been taken in order to address their problems.