The Olympics is a "cultural bridge" that has brought China and Greece - two ancient civilizations - even closer together, Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis said.
"The Olympic flame has moved from the cradle of the Western world to the capital of the largest and most ancient Asian civilization, forming a cultural bridge that has since brought our two peoples even closer," she said.
She will attend the opening ceremony of the Games today on behalf of the Greek government.
"Greece and China agree on many issues on the international agenda and are working fervently to further their cooperation in technology, security, economy, tourism, shipping and commerce," Bakoyannis said.
As foreign minister she had "first-hand knowledge" of the flourishing bilateral relationship, she said.
This year is the "Year of Greece" in China. The Greek embassy in China, in collaboration with the Greek government, has organized a series of concerts, theater performances, festivals, exhibitions and conferences to promote the country's culture.
Bilateral trade has doubled in the last few years. Greek ships carry nearly 50 percent of goods to and from China, Bakoyannis said.
Greek shipping companies have entered into an increasing number of contracts with Chinese shipyards, while Chinese authorities are looking to tap into the potential of Greek ports as a stopover for Chinese goods to European markets, she said.
In November, a direct flight from Beijing to Athens was inaugurated by Air China and, by 2020, more than 100 million tourists from China are expected to visit Greece.
Several memoranda of understanding in the fields of security and police cooperation have also been signed between China and Greece.
Bakoyannis was mayor of Athens during the 2004 Olympics, and understands the sacrifices China has made on the road to the Games.
She still remembers handing over the Olympic flag to then Beijing mayor Wang Qishan in 2004, "knowing that it would be in good hands".
"Four years later, I am here visiting China, looking forward to a most memorable sports spectacle."
She said she is sure the Greek team will perform well at the Games, and is looking forward to the basketball competition.
"We look forward to seeing Greek athletes in action and have faith in them. Furthermore, I am certain the Greek delegation is proud to be in China," she said.
Source: China Daily
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