The ceremony, held at the Athens City Hall, marked the beginning of an institutional collaboration focused on scientific documentation, research, education, and the transfer of know-how in the field of tourism and sustainable development.
The Rector of the University of Piraeus, Michail Sfakianakis, emphasized the importance of scientific support to local governance, stating:
“This initiative seals an already excellent collaboration, which began with the emblematic project on the Carrying Capacity of Athens. The University of Piraeus, with the Department of Tourism Studies as a key driving force, will continue to contribute actively through scientific documentation and research support for the city.”

The Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, highlighted the vital role of tourism in the city's economy, saying:
“Tourism is a central pillar of Athens’ economy. That’s why we invest in knowledge and cooperation with the academic community. With this Memorandum, we are laying the foundations for a tourism strategy that respects the city, its residents, and the environment. Our collaboration with the University of Piraeus strengthens our efforts toward a destination that evolves based on principles of sustainability, resilience, and social cohesion.”
For his part, the CEO of Develop Athens S.A., Ioannis Georgizas, remarked that the agreement is a meaningful step toward shaping responsible and balanced tourism development:
“The knowledge, experience, and research capacity of the University of Piraeus are valuable tools for forming policies and strategies that meet contemporary challenges.”

The Memorandum of Understanding outlines collaborations across a range of areas, including the provision of scientific data, participation in research and European programs, educational cooperation, and evidence-based support for Athens’ tourism strategy with a focus on sustainability and competitiveness.
A central aspect of the agreement is the support of Develop Athens S.A. in its role as a Destination Management and Marketing Organization (DMMO), with a key instrument being the Athens Observatory for Sustainable Development and Tourism—an initiative of the Municipality of Athens aimed at strategic planning and monitoring of the city’s tourism activity.
The agreement will remain in effect for five years, with the possibility of renewal and further deepening of joint initiatives, reflecting both parties’ commitment to a long-term and meaningful collaboration.