China, Greece to improve cooperation

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Source: CCTV.com | 06-24-2008 13:13

Greek President Karolos Papoulias is in Beijing for a five-day state visit at the invitation of President Hu Jintao. The visit is aimed at improving cooperation in various areas and improving bilateral ties.

This is President Papoulias' first visit to China since he took office in 2005.

Greek President Karolos Papoulias is in Beijing for a five-day state visit at the invitation of President Hu Jintao.

President Hu Jintao said bilateral relations have developed smoothly since the two countries established diplomatic relations 36 years ago. There have been frequent high-level meetings, and economic cooperation is steadily expanding.

In order to maintain the momentum of bilateral ties, Hu Jintao put forward four suggestions. They include conducting closer exchanges to enhance mutual trust, deepening practical cooperation to realize a win-win situation, promoting cultural exchanges and traditional friendship and enhancing international cooperation for mutual benefit.

Hu Jintao thanked Greece for its support for the Beijing Olympics. He said the Chinese government and its people will fulfill their promise to the international society and make the utmost efforts to hold a successful Olympic Games and carry forward the spirit of Olympics.

The Chinese President also thanked Greece for supporting the One China policy, and its opposition to Taiwan and Tibetan separatism.

President Papoulias praised the unique and positive roles China had played in international and regional issues. He said Greece supports the further development of relations between the EU and China.

Papoulias also said Greece is the origin of the modern Olympics. The country has always taken it for granted that Olympics should be a grand sports event to promote friendship and peaceful development of the world. He said Greece is opposed to the politicization of the Olympics and hopes the Olympic spirit will be carried on permanently. The Greek President wished Beijing Olympic Games great success.

Editor:Zhang Ning