China, Greece agree to further bilateral cooperation

Wishes and high expectations for further flourishing of Sino-Greek relations were expressed during a reception hosted by new Chinese Ambassador to Greece Zou Xiaoli on Wednesday evening on the occasion of the assumption of his duties.

Addressing his guests, Zou referred to the long history of strong ties between China and Greece, expressing his happiness for assuming duties at a time when bilateral cooperation is deepening.

"China and Greece have always been supporting each other firmly on issues of common interest. So it is a true privilege for me to serve as Chinese ambassador to Greece, especially at a time when our relationship is flourishing," Zou said, extending wishes for Greece's prosperity and fruitful cooperation between the two sides.

Greek Shipping Minister Miltiadis Varvitsiotis told Xinhua during the event that "We are very glad to welcome the new Chinese Ambassador in Athens. We have an excellent cooperation with China."

"We want the challenges for the years to come to enhance this cooperation to flavor it and flourish it with more investments from both sides and I think we are going to have an excellent cooperation," he stressed.

Notis Mitarachis, Greek deputy minister of Development and Competitiveness, said "Our cultural, economic and political ties will be further strengthened with the arrival of the new ambassador. We are looking forward to an excellent collaboration."

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni was also among the guests attending the event.

Ambassador Zou arrived in Athens on Jan. 8 and presented his credentials to Greek President Karolos Papoulias on Jan. 22.