China committed to settling maritime disputes via dialogue (Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, Athens)

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang addresses the China-Greece Maritime Cooperation Forum in Athens, capital of Greece, June 20, 2014. Photo: Xinhua

China is committed to settling maritime disputes through dialogues and negotiations, on the basis of respecting historical facts and international law, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said here Friday.

Li made the remarks when addressing the China-Greece Marine Cooperation Forum, where he called for stronger maritime cooperation between the two nations and expounded China's viewpoints on maritime affairs.

Pledging to build a "sea of peace" with other countries, Li said China will unswervingly follow the path of peaceful development and firmly oppose any act of hegemony in maritime affairs.

He added that the country is resolute in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, which is conducive to safeguarding regional peace and order as well.

Proposing to build a "sea of cooperation" and a "sea of harmony," Li touched upon his vision in developing international cooperation in maritime affairs and protecting the marine environment.

As for China-Greece marine cooperation, Li said the two countries, which have already forged a comprehensive strategic partnership, enjoy a vast prospect for cooperation in this sphere.

• He proposed that China and Greece make good use of the "China-Greece Marine Year" event in 2015, establish an inter-governmental committee on cooperation, and enhance cooperation in such fields as marine technology, environmental protection, disaster prevention and management, and maritime law enforcement.

• He also called on the two countries to make the Piraeus Container Terminal project, jointly operated by China and Greece, a bright spot in their cooperation, and build the Piraeus port, the the largest in Greece, into the most competitive one in Europe and even in the world.

To that end, Li proposed to develop such industries as ship building and repairing, and reconstructing railway linkage between the Piraeus port and inland Europe.

The premier also called on joint efforts from China and Greece to forge a modern marine civilization.

Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, in his speech, hailed the sea as a significant platform for Greece-China cooperation, which connects the Chinese and Greek civilizations, as well as their markets.

Greece is ready to strengthen marine cooperation with China and jointly boost the construction of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, Samaras vowed.

Premier Li arrived here Thursday for an official visit, his first trip to Greece since taking office in 2013. 
Sources: Xinhua -  globaltimes.cn
21/6/14
--
-
Related:

• China, Greece ink $4.6 billion in deals. "Greece can become China's gateway in Europe and the start of a European trade corridor" 

• Chinese, Greek FMs meet on ties (The joint statements)

• Greek media show strong interest in Chinese premier's visit 

• Στην Κνωσό ο Κινέζος πρωθυπουργός

------

• Philippines, U.S. to hold naval drills near disputed Scarborough shoal in South China Sea

• China says will never send military to oil rig spat with Vietnam

• Philippines flies flag over Nansha Islands

• Japanese planes seriously threaten China's flight over East China Sea (Senkaku/Diaoyu issue)