Greece is seeking to expand its shipping industry’s role in Chinese shipbuilding projects, with Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Minister Vassilis Kikilias proposing that Greek marine equipment manufacturers be considered for participation in construction projects in China.
Kikilias made the proposal during a meeting with Chinese Transport Minister Liu Wei in Shanghai, as part of his ongoing international contacts following a visit to Japan. The meeting was attended by Spyridon Kritikos, Greece’s consul general in Shanghai.
Greek Shipping and Island Policy Minister Vassilis Kikilias met with Chinese Transport Minister Liu Wei in Shanghai as he continued his series of international meetings in China following a visit to Japan. Tuesday, October 20, 2026. (Press Office of the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy / Eurokinissi)
The discussions focused on closer cooperation between Greek shipping companies and China’s shipbuilding industry. Kikilias highlighted the significant presence of Greek shipowners in the Chinese market, both in the number of vessels ordered and their size, and called for opportunities for Greek companies producing maritime equipment to be explored.
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Kikilias calls for protection of maritime security
The Greek minister also emphasized Greece’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), expressing serious concern about the effects of the current geopolitical situation on freedom of navigation.
He condemned attacks against seafarers and ships and stressed the importance of protecting maritime security.
The issue is also expected to feature prominently at the North Bund Forum, where Kikilias is scheduled to deliver a speech on Wednesday. The forum is co-organized by China’s Ministry of Transport and the Shanghai municipal government.
Greek Shipping and Island Policy Minister Vassilis Kikilias met with Chinese Transport Minister Liu Wei in Shanghai as he continued his series of international meetings in China following a visit to Japan. Tuesday, October 20, 2026. (Press Office of the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy / Eurokinissi)
This year’s conference is focused on two issues considered critical to global maritime trade: maritime security and the resilience of maritime transportation, against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions and challenges facing international shipping.
China and Greece to strengthen coordination
Liu expressed particular interest in Kikilias’ upcoming address at the forum, which brings together discussions on the challenges confronting the international shipping sector.
The two ministers agreed to remain in contact and strengthen coordination between their countries. Kikilias also invited Liu to visit Greece.
The Shanghai meeting follows Kikilias’ visit to Japan, part of a broader round of international contacts focused on cooperation in the maritime sector.