Greece’s construction market is in its "best phase in 25 years," and the Thessaloniki Metro extension to Kalamaria is on track to open in the first quarter of 2026, the head of the country's largest construction group said at a summit here.
Speaking at the Thessaloniki Metropolitan Summit alongside Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Dimas, Alexandros Exarchou, Chairman and CEO of the AKTOR Group, credited the government's push on large infrastructure projects for attracting significant international investment. He noted, however, that sustainable growth requires a new approach to public works focused on assured financing and mature planning to avoid delays.
On the much-anticipated metro extension, Mr. Exarchou confirmed that testing on the line has begun.
He said his company, AKTOR, is operating in three shifts to accelerate the work and ensure the project meets its targeted opening date.
Speaking as a partner at Thrivest Holdings, Mr. Exarchou also hailed the impending acquisition of HSBC Malta by Credia Bank.
He described the deal as a major success for the Greek economy that will allow the state's bank rescue fund to recover its past investment in the lender with a profit, helping to create a "strong fifth banking pillar."