On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, a highly successful celebratory event for the Chinese New Year was held, organized by XRTC Business Consultants and China Classification Society (CCS), in the presence of the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Fang Qiu, with the participation of representatives of the Greek shipping community and distinguished guests at the Hellenic Riding Club — a venue of particular symbolism, as the Chinese enter the Year of the Horse.
Welcoming the guests, the CEO of XRTC, Mr. George Xiradakis, emphasized that the co-organization of the event with China Classification Society (CCS) reflects the deep and strategic cooperation between Greece and China within the global maritime ecosystem.
He underlined that shipping stands at a critical turning point, with regulatory changes, decarbonization, digitalization, and new risk management frameworks reshaping ship operations and financing. In this environment, the role of classification societies and technical and strategic advisors becomes decisive in ensuring safety, compliance, and sustainable growth.
Particular emphasis was placed on the deepening of Greek–Chinese cooperation, noting that 63% of newbuilding orders placed by Greek shipowners are constructed in China, while together Greek and Chinese maritime interests control nearly 34% of global tonnage. Chinese shipyards now constitute a strategic partner for Greek shipping, not only due to cost and capacity, but also because of technological excellence and environmental performance. Cooperation in maritime finance also plays a significant role.
Concluding his speech, Mr. Xiradakis stressed that sustainability must be practical, innovation commercially viable, and growth grounded in trust and transparency. The Year of the Horse — a symbol of strength, discipline, and forward-looking progress — serves, as he noted, as a guide for a year of safe voyages, sound decisions, and sustainable returns for international shipping.
In his address, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China highlighted that, despite the international challenges and uncertainties of 2025, China remained committed to the principles of equality, mutual benefit, and open dialogue. He stressed the importance of the consensus reached between China and the United States regarding the suspension of special surcharges on vessels, which contributed to the stability of global shipping.
Referring to the Chinese economy, he noted that in 2025 the country’s GDP reached USD 20 trillion, with a growth rate of 5%, contributing approximately 30% to global economic growth. As he emphasized, China seeks not only to be “the world’s factory,” but also “the world’s market,” promoting inclusive and sustainable globalization.
Special reference was made to the Port of Piraeus, presented as an example of successful Greek–Chinese cooperation. Container throughput increased from 680,000 TEUs to over
5.6 million TEUs, while revenues to the Greek State and the company’s social investments recorded significant growth. At the same time, further investments were announced in cruise infrastructure, logistics, and green development.
The Ambassador called for further deepening of Greece–China cooperation in shipping, proposing:
- Strengthening the participation of Greek shipowners in the transportation of Chinese cargoes.
- Expanding cooperation in shipbuilding and ship repair activities, with emphasis on high-technology vessels.
- Joint initiatives for the green transition of shipping and the development of green marine fuels.
In closing, he expressed confidence that China and Greece, as two major maritime nations, can jointly contribute to the stability of global supply chains and the sustainable development of international shipping, wishing everyone a happy and productive Year of the Horse.
Subsequently, Mr. Xiradakis introduced the new General Manager of CCS in Greece, Mr. Cui Yuwei, who in his speech referred to the role of China Classification Society (CCS) as a member of IACS and a key technical advisor in shaping international maritime regulations through the IMO, with significant contributions in areas such as digitalization, autonomous ships (MASS), and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In 2025, the fleet under CCS survey reached 36,000 vessels, while nearly 200 Greek- owned ships are classed with CCS, maintaining an excellent safety record.
For 2026, the Year of the Horse — symbolizing progress and success — CCS has set as key priorities: promoting digitalization and smart ships; cooperation for the green transition of shipping (green fuels, carbon capture, shore power); strengthening technological research and joint presence at international maritime forums; and the training of specialized human resources.
