China's Ambassador in Greece Mr Xiao Junzheng, confirmed for both the Eastern Mediterranean and Ukraine that "China's consistent position that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected and defended," at a press briefing on Tuesday.
Speaking of the Eastern Mediterranean, in a clear nudge to Turkey, the ambassador noted, "the escalation of tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean does not serve the interests of any party. It is our hope that the parties concerned will resolve their differences through dialogue and consultation, refrain from acts that could escalate tensions, and work together to maintain peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region."
Regarding Greek-Turkish relations in particular, the Chinese diplomat noted that "the Greek government's attitude and position are very moderate and rational, trying to deescalate the tensions and open the door for the political consultations with the Turkish side." Moreover, he underlined, China "will continue to try our best to create the atmosphere for Greece and Turkey to keep on the tracks of consolidation and political dialogue."
Investments in Greece
With Greece making headway towards its digital transformation and green development, Ambassador Xiao Junzheng said, China and Greece could strengthen cooperation in these fields. He mentioned as an example "a mountain windfarm in northeastern Greece, constructed and operated with the participation of China Energy Europe Renewable Energy Company, producing green electricity for 30,000 households each year while reducing CO2 emissions by 160,000 tons, which is equivalent to planting 360,000 trees each year."
He also said that several Chinese companies have expressed interest in participating in Greece's 'Green Island' program, while he also stressed that China and Europe "are not competitors, much less rivals. The cooperation between China and Europe is win-win, and there is no question of one side being attached to the other."
Ukraine
On Russia's war in Ukraine, the Chinese ambassador reaffirmed China's position, which he repeated is consistent and clear and is based on the respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. The purposes and principles of the UN Charter must be observed, and the legitimate security concerns of all countries must be taken seriously, he noted. "As a responsible major country, China always stands on the side of peace and has all along been committed to promoting peace talks, playing a constructive role in deescalating the situation," he said. "China is never a bystander, and China would never add fuel to the fire, much less exploit the crisis," he underlined.
The international community should support all efforts conducive to the peaceful resolution of the Ukraine crisis, he pointed out, and all parties involved should "start direct engagement as quickly as possible and create the conditions for the resumption of talks."
"We should oppose the threat or use of nuclear weapons and prevent a nuclear crisis in Eurasia," he stressed.
