In an exclusive interview with China.org.cn on November 12, Greek ambassador to China, Theodore Georgakelos, expressed his confidence in China's future leaders to be unveiled during the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Beijing.

The ambassador said that he believes the future leaders will have the ability to address potential problems and maintain China's level of development. Georgakelos spoke highly of China's contributions to the world as an emerging power. He said that bilateral relations between Greece and China are built on a solid foundation and have great potential for further development.

China.org.cn: What are your expectations for China's new generation of leaders?

Theodore Georgakelos: The Chinese leaders have long experience of government and a deep knowledge of the problems China is facing at this stage of its development. After three decades of extraordinary economic expansion, China's leaders have identified the crucial qualitative issues that need to be addressed so that growth continues and Chinese people benefit from it and the international cooperation and stability get reinforced.

China.org.cn: How will the new generation of leadership affect bilateral ties between Greece and China?

Georgakelos: Greece and China are celebrating this year the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties. A strong friendship and mutual respect are the solid basis of our excellent bilateral relations. Progress has been remarkable during that period. However, it is doubtless that we have substantial potential for further development, especially in the fields of cultural exchanges, increasing trade, attracting more Chinese investments in Greece, and of course, receiving more Chinese visitors to Greece.

China.org.cn: What are the greatest challenges that China's new generation of leaders will tackle, both domestically and internationally, over the next 10 years?

Georgakelos: In creating a multi-lateral system, it is fundamental to strive towards its stability and to correct any imbalances that threaten it. International trade, financial movements, political crises need not to go without regulation beyond certain limits so as to avoid the risks of major clashes. The relations between EU and China will be instrumental in this regard.

It is obvious that aiming at avoiding external imbalances there is a necessity of rethinking internal policies. There is a delicate but necessary balance to be found.

China.org.cn: What has China's development brought to the rest of the world?

Georgakelos: The emergence of China as a major economic power is a factor of inventing a new multi-lateral world system, more balanced and therefore more stable.

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