On the morning of October 3, 2010, local time, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao delivered an important speech on China-Greece and China-EU relations at the Greek parliament.
Wen said both China and Greece are nations with ancient civilizations and boast rich historical and cultural heritage. The Chinese civilization and Greek civilization like two bright pearls in the east and west of the world had made major contributions to the development of world civilization, he said. Greece has offered precious help for the development of the People's Republic of China and has always supported China on major issues concerning China's core interests. The Greek government and people have also made important contributions to the success of the Beijing Olympic Games. The Chinese people will remember all this forever.
"In the once-in-a-century financial crisis that has battered the world economy in the last two years, both China and Greece have stood the test," Wen said. As a friend of Greece, the Chinese government firmly supports Greece. "We hope that by intensifying cooperation with you, we can be of some help in your endeavor to tide over difficulties at an early date," said Wen. China hopes to broaden bilateral trade, deepen maritime cooperation, promote investment cooperation and expand tourism cooperation with Greece.
China-EU relations have reached unprecedented breadth and depth and the two sides have become indispensable partners in each other's development endeavor, said Wen. "China-EU relations are now at a new historical starting point with broad space for further growth. It should be our shared objective to push forward the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership and step up all-dimensional cooperation," Wen said. "China is sincere in enhancing cooperation with Europe and we are confident about the prospects of our cooperation," Wen said. A united, prosperous and strong Europe is of irreplaceable significance to world development and stability.
"The world economic recovery is a tortuous process. To fully emerge from the financial crisis, we need to make joint efforts," Wen finally said. It is in constantly overcoming disasters and challenges that human society moves towards civilization and progress. "I am convinced that as long as we inherit and carry forward the fine cultural tradition of our forebears, fully rely upon and tap into the wisdom and talent of our people, and tackle difficulties together with confidence, we will bring about an even better future," said Wen.
Premier Wen also met with Greek parliament speaker Philippos Petsalnikos. Wen appreciated political parties in the Greek parliament for their positive attitude in dealing with ties with China and hoped that they will continue to play a constructive role in deepening bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.
Petsalnikos thanked for China's sincere help and strong support to Greece. He said the Greek parliament is ready to further strengthen exchanges with China and make contributions to building mutual understanding and trust between the two countries and promoting pragmatic cooperation in all areas.