MP and former minister Varvitsiotis announces resignation from politics and Parliament

PM expresses 'sorrow' at Varvitsiotis' decision, wishes him success in 'next step'; Dimitris Kalogeropoulos to take over seat in Parliament

Ruling New Democracy MP Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, a former minister, on Thursday announced that he is resigning from politics and giving up his seat in Parliament, in a post on social media. “There comes a time in life when one cycle ends and new one begins. I have been honoured with the confidence of my fellow citizens for 24 years, having been elected an MP without fail since 2000. I have served as a member of the government four times, under three different prime ministers, whom I thank for their faith in my person,” Miltiadis said, noting that he had “served the national goal that Greece should distinguish itself in Europe, both at home and abroad.” “I have always believed that contribution to the country is not only done from the seats of parliament or a ministerial post. Especially today, when the era of major crises and strong clashes is over, the country needs to respond to the challenges of the future. Having served twice at the Shipping Ministry, with the experience of a maritime lawyer but also as a person of the sea, I firmly believe that this area has unlimited potential for the growth and prosperity of the country. I have always believed, in any case, that Greece must make the utmost use of its success in the field of shipping and my personal contribution to this effort cannot be limited to political action alone. With these thoughts, I hand over my parliamentary seat,” Varvitsiotis concluded.

PM expresses ‘sorrow’ at Varvitsiotis’ decision, wishes him success in ‘next step’; Dimitris Kalogeropoulos to take over seat in Parliament

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday made a statement concerning the resignation of MP and former minister Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, saying that the decision, “which I heard with sorrow,” showed that for some, politics was not a “one-way street or a lifetime occupation”. “With Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, apart from our common political path over decades, we are also linked by personal friendship. In the 25 years of his career, he has engaged in politics with steadfastness and supported the party as an MP and minister. I honour his work. With his decision today, which I heard with sorrow, he shows that for some politics is neither a one-way street nor a lifetime occupation. Miltiadis has himself chosen the time when he will take the next step in his life. I wish him every success and thank him for his cooperation and friendship,” the prime minister said. According to sources, Varvitsiotis met Mitsotakis on Thursday morning and made his decision in consultation with the prime minister. His seat in Parliament will go to Dimitris Kalogeropoulos.