Post by : Badri Ariffin

Athens, Greece – China has firmly ruled out any sale of its controlling stake in Greece’s Piraeus port, one of Europe’s busiest maritime hubs, following comments from the newly appointed U.S. ambassador suggesting the port could be put on the market.

China’s state-owned shipping giant, COSCO, acquired a 67% stake in Piraeus in 2016 during Greece’s debt crisis, turning the port into a critical link on trade routes connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia. The acquisition has since transformed Piraeus into a major commercial gateway, boosting both local employment and shipping traffic.

In a recent interview with Greek ANT1 TV, U.S. Ambassador Kimberly Ann Guilfoyle emphasized the strategic importance of U.S. infrastructure in Greece, hinting at potential alternatives to counter China’s growing influence. She suggested that enhancing output in other regional ports or exploring a possible sale of Piraeus could balance Chinese dominance.

China’s embassy in Greece responded strongly, labeling the U.S. remarks as “groundless attacks” and accusing Washington of attempting to influence Greek-Chinese agreements for its own strategic aims. The embassy stressed that Piraeus “must not fall victim to geopolitical confrontation” and reaffirmed that China’s investment in the port remains intact.

The dispute reflects broader U.S.-China competition over key infrastructure and energy routes in Europe. Washington has increasingly sought to expand its presence in Greece, including interest in smaller ports and extended access to military facilities on Crete and the Greek mainland, aiming to counter Russian influence in the region.

Analysts say the tensions highlight how international ports are no longer merely economic assets but critical elements in geopolitical strategy. Piraeus, in particular, stands at the intersection of global trade and power competition, making it a focal point for both Chinese investment and U.S. strategic interest.

The situation underscores the delicate balance Greece must maintain between two global powers, navigating economic benefits from Chinese investment while managing strategic relations with the United States.

#Global News #Business News