New strides in infrastructure, trade, finance add weight to historical ties

Editor's note: This year marks the 10th anniversary of the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative. A decade of practice has demonstrated that it's a broad and prosperous way for China and the world to share opportunities and seek common development. In a more than 10-part series, China Daily finds out how the road of peace, prosperity, openness, green development, innovation and civilization will contribute more to the shared future of mankind.

Over two millenniums ago, the radiant civilizations of ancient China and Greece illuminated the landscapes of Asia and Europe. Greece's golden era gave rise to great philosophers and literary titans, coinciding with the time in China when a multitude of philosophical ideologies thrived side by side.

Dating back to the 4th century BC, the Greeks bestowed upon China the graceful Greek name of Serike, meaning the land of the Seres. It meant "silk" or people of the land where silk comes from.

By the 16th century, the introduction of Euclid's Elements into China paved the way for scientific dialogue between East and West. Greek mathematician Euclid, often referred to as the "Father of Geometry", wrote possibly the most important mathematical textbook in history, known as the Elements.

Ancient Athenian playwright Aeschylus' narrative of Prometheus, the Titan who stole fire from heaven and gave it to humankind, according to Greek mythology, inspired numerous Chinese revolutionaries.

And enduring Greek classics — Plato's Republic and Aristotle's Politics — left an indelible mark on Chinese culture.

In the early days of the establishment of the People's Republic of China, Greek shipowners broke Western blockades to provide it with vital supplies, with roles reversing during Greece's debt crisis when China offered support through investments.

Fast-forward to the 21st century, the Belt and Road Initiative, drawing from the ancient Silk Road, has revitalized China-Greece relations. This initiative has not only invigorated bilateral ties but also created new avenues for mutual growth, experts said.

The initiative, proposed in 2013, made strides in enhancing infrastructure, trade, financial cooperation, and interpersonal bonds between the two nations.

"Forging business connections with China is in our blood," said George Xiradakis, vice-president of the Hellenic Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Tourism and Shipping.

"Greeks have consistently stood alongside the Chinese, driven by a profound belief in their strength. Moreover, the historical bond between our cultures adds a sense of warmth to our discussions, creating a truly positive atmosphere," Xiradakis said.

"Given this natural affinity, it was only logical to cultivate a comprehensive partnership between our nations, spanning trade, academia, maritime endeavors, and even, in some instances, political engagements."

Against the backdrop of a rich historical connection, certain events catalyzed the blossoming ties, according to Xiradakis, who is also the president of the Association of Banking and Financial Executives of Hellenic Shipping.

"The pivotal seeds of this partnership were sown in recent years. Notably, the joyous moments of the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games served as significant milestones. This confluence brought us closer, occurring simultaneously with Greece's entry into the euro currency zone in 2001," he added.

Situated at the crossroads of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, Greece stands as a natural partner for the BRI's international cooperation projects, analysts say.