Greece may open its borders to foreign tourists from May 14, the Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis said at a press conference at the Acropolis Museum, Report informs.
"In 2021, we are ready to welcome all tourists if they have either been vaccinated, have antibodies, or show a negative test. At the border, as in the previous year, random tests will be done. But the difference is that this year we will use express tests, which will save guests from waiting for the result within 24 hours," Theocharis said.
The minister stressed that the tests will be provided at the expense of the Greek government, and tourists will not be charged. According to Theocharis, last year, Greece proved that it can guarantee each visitor a 'unique experience of safe travel.'
"By following the health authorities' recommendations, we were able to receive tourists and do it safely. We have created protocols for each type of recreation and have trained thousands of employees on them. As a result, last year we received more than 6 million tourists," he added.
According to the minister, the Greek authorities will begin to lift the restrictions gradually.
"With these protocols in mind, we are ready to open by May 14. Until then, we will gradually remove restrictions. We plan to test our protocols in early April with EU countries and countries with high vaccination rates, such as Israel," the minister added.
Theocharis also said that workers in the tourism industry will be vaccinated as a priority after the most vulnerable population groups. Besides, the country will continue to require wearing masks, which will apply to locals and tourists.