The 15th Greece-China Joint Interministerial Committee met in Ningbo, China, with an extensive agenda covering a wide range of issues, from investment and trade to transport, shipping and tourism. It was chaired by Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis.
The Committee’s work delivered tangible results, including the conclusion of negotiations on a protocol for the export of Greek cherries to the Chinese market, which is expected to be signed shortly, as well as the establishment of working groups to expand the participation of Greek marine equipment products in China’s shipbuilding sector.
The two sides also agreed to step up talks between the relevant authorities to accelerate procedures for Greek yoghurt to gain access to the Chinese market and strengthen its presence there.
The Joint Interministerial Committee concluded its work in a spirit of cooperation and constructive dialogue, confirming the shared desire to further expand bilateral relations on the basis of mutual respect and the historic ties of friendship between the two peoples, the statement said.
During his visit to China, Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis also visited the Zhejiang Geely factory in Meishan, Zhejiang province. He toured the modern production facilities and was briefed on production capacity, technological innovations and the latest developments in the automotive and electric mobility sectors.
The visit was part of efforts to strengthen economic and business ties between Greece and China, with a particular focus on technology, industry and exploring new investment opportunities.
The Deputy Foreign Minister also visited the Ningbo-Zhoushan port, one of China’s most important port complexes. He toured its modern facilities and was briefed on their operations, cargo-handling capacity and pivotal role in international trade.
The visit highlighted significant prospects for further developing Greek-Chinese cooperation in shipping, maritime transport and the supply chain — sectors in which both countries have considerable comparative strengths and scope for collaboration.
The Deputy Foreign Minister’s meetings and visits in China confirm the two sides’ commitment to further strengthening their economic and business cooperation, making the most of opportunities in strategically important sectors such as trade, industry, technology and shipping.