Premier Li Keqiang attended the opening ceremony of the 2021 Sino-Greek Year of Culture and Tourism via video link and delivered a keynote speech on Sept 16.

Premier Li said rich cultural heritage from China and Greece’s long histories are the soil for the development of the two countries’ friendship, as well as people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

He added the two sides have translated mutual understanding into an inexhaustible force that drives friendly cooperation in all fields.

The state visit President Xi Jinping paid to Greece in 2019 has greatly promoted the development of bilateral ties, the Premier said. The fruitful China-Greece cooperation has benefited both countries and peoples, he added.

The Premier also cited mutual support and joint efforts in fighting the COVID-19 epidemic as a new chapter in their friendship.

He stressed the significance of celebrating this culture and tourism year, as the two countries will embrace the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties next year.

Mutual learning will nourish and enrich diverse and colorful civilizations, and mutual people-to-people exchanges boost connectivity, the Premier said, expressing his expectations this event will highlight the progress in mutual understanding, deepened traditional friendship and pragmatic cooperation.

In the face of a complicated and changing international situation, promoting exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations is fundamental to acquire wisdom and strength to cope with various challenges and difficulties, Premier Li said, adding China and Greece should join hands to take their responsibilities for pushing forward development of human history and advancing civilizational progress.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also made remarks at the conference via video link.