Wang Yi Speaks with Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias on the Phone
2022-05-13 22:19

On May 13, 2022, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone conversation with Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias at the latter's request.

Wang Yi said, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Greece. Over the past half a century, the two sides have always appreciated, accommodated and helped each other, respected each other's development path chosen by their own people, and supported each other's core interests and major concerns. The amicable relations between China and Greece over the past 50 years are true reflection of mutual understanding and affinity between ancient civilizations, and a vivid epitome of the trend of the times for peace, development and win-win cooperation, setting a good example for the development of relations between China and European countries. China is ready to work with Greece to take the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral ties as an opportunity to draw up a blueprint for the future development of bilateral relations, and actively expand practical cooperation in transportation, energy, tourism, infrastructure, green and digital economy, and other fields, so as to open up new prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation. The two sides should fully leverage their strengths of ancient civilizations and major countries of culture, stay committed to advocating exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations, uphold peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, the values shared by all, and make greater contributions to world peace and development.

Dendias said, China is a strong partner of Greece. Greece firmly adheres to the one-China principle and looks forward to working with China to hold successful celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Greece and China, strengthen bilateral economic and trade exchanges, and further deepen cooperation in tourism, culture and other fields, so as to elevate bilateral relations to new heights.

The two sides exchanged views on the Ukraine issue.

Wang Yi said, China fully understands the concerns of European countries, including Greece, over the situation. China also expects an early ceasefire, end of the conflict and restoration of peace. If the conflict is prolonged and magnified, European interests would be harmed further. China hopes that Europe will make wise choices and cool-headed decisions to prevent the situation from intensifying to a point of no return. The security of Europe should be kept in the hands of Europeans themselves. China will continue to promote peace talks and support all efforts conducive to a political settlement.

Wang Yi stressed, under the current circumstances, we should guard against the resurgence of a new Cold War and oppose any attempt to incite bloc confrontations around the world. All parties should uphold the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, and adhere to true multilateralism, not only to seek practical ways to achieve lasting peace and security in Europe, but also to promote lasting peace and development in the world. China is opposed to some forces using the Ukraine crisis as an excuse to justify NATO's further expansion into the Asia-Pacific region. The attempt to build an Asia-Pacific version of NATO will only do serious harm to regional security.

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