Chinese Ambassador visits Dedeağaç, highlights prospects for cooperation

The newly appointed Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Greece, Mr. Fang Qiu, visited the Dedeağaç (Alexandroupoli) City Hall on Tuesday, where he was warmly welcomed by Mayor Giannis Zampoukis. 

The visit marked Ambassador Qiu’s first official trip to the city and took place in a constructive and cordial atmosphere.

During the meeting, Mayor Zampoukis highlighted Dedeağaç's (Alexandroupolis) strategic significance as a rising geopolitical and development hub in Southeastern Europe. He presented key infrastructure projects currently underway or in planning, including the port expansion, the Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU), and connectivity with the international rail network—all of which position the city as a vital node for energy transit and logistics.

Focus on infrastructure, investment, and environmental cooperation

Ambassador Qiu expressed keen interest in the city’s development trajectory and investment potential. The discussion also explored areas of city-to-city diplomacy, focusing on potential partnerships in economy, trade, tourism, and culture.

Particular attention was given to environmental and water management technologies, such as drip irrigation systems, a field where China has significant experience. The two sides discussed the exchange of technical expertise as a foundation for practical collaboration.

Strengthening cultural ties

The delegation also examined opportunities to collaborate with the Chinese Cultural Center in Athens, with the aim of organizing artistic performances, cultural festivals, and exhibitions in Dedeağaç (Alexandroupoli). These initiatives are expected to enhance mutual cultural understanding and strengthen ties between the Greek and Chinese people.

Both parties reaffirmed their willingness to develop closer relations between the region and Chinese cities, using multi-level cooperation and city diplomacy as a vehicle for growth.

The meeting concluded with the exchange of commemorative gifts and mutual expressions of commitment to continued dialogue and cooperation in the near future.