On June 24, 2008, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with Greek President Karolos Papoulias in Ziguangge, Zhongnanhai.

Wen expressed gratitude for Greece's sympathy and assistance to China's earthquake-hit region and its support of the Beijing Olympics. He said that the two countries have maintained political mutual trust and conducted economic cooperation and social and cultural exchanges, which helps build up bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership. He noted that China is glad to have such a good friend as Greece in the European Union.

Wen said the Chinese government supports a balanced development of bilateral trade and encourages expanding service trade and mutual investment. The two nations enjoy vast prospects in bilateral cooperation in ocean shipping, logistics, tourism, telecom and small and medium-sized companies, Wen said. He called on relevant departments and businesses of the two sides to step up contact and innovate modes of cooperation to achieve win-win results.

Papoulias said this visit is of great significance to pushing forward Greece-China relations. The visit, during which a large group of Greek businesspeople accompanied the president, is aimed at enhancing exchanges and cooperation with China and pushing bilateral economic and trade relations to a new level. China is ready to join hands with China to further cooperation of mutual benefits in ocean shipping, tourism, telecom, high technology and agriculture so as to create a better future for bilateral ties. It is of special significance that the Olympic Games will be held in China, following Greece. Greece fully supports the Beijing Olympics and the whole nation sincerely wishes success for the Beijing Olympic Games.