Greece
* As some Indicators can be skipped where data is unavailable, the maximum overall and Domain scores are not identical for each country. Country rankings are generated from ratios of the maximum scores and the achieved scores.
The Indicators have been classified by the stage of the influence process at which they occur. Some Indicators correspond to exposure to PRC influence, e.g. the presence of Confucius Institutes. Others test for pressure – such as visa denials to academics or journalists. Finally, some Indicators capture the effect of PRC influence, such as national policy changes in favor of PRC interests.
The individual Layer scores for each country are tallied and displayed via rankings.
Exposure
Exposure assesses the conditions that make the target country vulnerable to PRC's influence, e.g. in terms of economic dependence, or the receiving of some form of benefit.
Pressure
Pressure measures the actions that the PRC directly or indirectly exerts over the target country in order to change the behavior of people in the target country, e.g. in terms of threatening economic punishment to provoke/prevent a political decision.
Effect
Effect evaluates the degree of accommodations the target country makes to the PRC, and the actual effects and impacts on the target country.
In 2021, Greece had a GDP per capita of US$20,277 and a total estimated population of 10.66 million people. Data relating to foreigners, including Chinese citizens, living in Greece have yet to be released. Since 2013, Greece has run a Golden Visa programme and, as of January 2022, there were 19,354 Golden Visa holders.
Greece established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China in 1972. Greece was ranked 108th in Reporters Without Borders 2021 World Press Freedom Index, and listed as Free in Freedom House’s 2021 Global Freedom Status, with a score of 87/100.
Percentage scores do not suggest some degree out of a “completely influenced” level of 100%. The percentages express the country’s score out of the total achievable amount based on the Indicators for each Domain.
- Media20.0% / 30.1%
- Academia17.5% / 34%
- Economy27.3% / 33.6%
- Society30.6% / 23.6%
- Military0.0% / 23.4%
- Law Enforcement0.0% / 30.2%
- Technology30.0% / 40.8%
- Domestic Politics20.0% / 37.2%
- Foreign Policy34.1% / 41%
Media
The Media Domain evaluates how PRC entities influence public debate and media coverage about the PRC in the Index country.
In my country, there are media organizations that belong to the World Chinese Media (世界华文媒体) network.
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
Some online media (websites and Facebook groups) have been identified which may be Chinese media in Greece and which appear to belong to the World Chinese Media network. These include: 《希华时讯》 and 《希中网》(see URL above). However, it is not entirely clear whether these media really exist in Greece, or whether they are obscure websites based in China. For this reason, we have decided to skip this question.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists or media organizations which are members of the Belt and Road Media Cooperation Alliance/Union, the Belt and Road News Alliance, or other Belt and Road media networks that connected to PRC (e.g. Belt and Road Media Community, Belt and Road Journalists Network, Belt and Road News Network, or B&R TV Networks).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have attended all-expenses paid media tours in PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
71 countries answered this indicator; 11 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have received trainings from PRC state-owned media or PRC-connected entities.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC state-media (including print, radio, and video) is broadcasted or distributed in a local language.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Athens Macedonian News Agency (AMNA) has had a cooperation agreement with Xinhua since May 2016. Furthermore, in December 2017 AMNA signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the China Economic Information Service (CEIS), an affiliate of Xinhua, for the establishment of a Belt and Road Economic and Financial Information Service. One of the significant daily newspapers in Greece, Kathimerini, signed a cooperation agreement with Xinhua in April 2017. A study produced by the Institute of International Economic Relations in Athens finds that in 2020 the English edition of the newspaper carried 66 Xinhua stories on its website, i.e. one every fifth day. Xinhua content is occasionally broadcast by Greek state TV (ERT), on the basis of an MoU with China’s National Radio and Television Administration. The MoU was signed in November 2019, during President Xi’s state visit to Greece.
- http://media.gov.gr/symfonia-synergasias-metaksy-ton-ethnikon-praktoreion-elladas-kai-kinas-ape-mpe-kai-xinhua-ypegrafi-simera-sti-ngee/
- https://www.amna.gr/en/article/210631/ANA-and-Xinhua-sign-MoU-on-Belt%E2%80%94Road-Financial-Information-Partnership
- https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/217828/greek-chinese-news-cooperation/
- https://idos.gr/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Sino-Greek-Relations_in_Media_18-3-2021.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local media outlets wholly or partly owned by PRC citizens or corporations.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is a Chinese newspaper, China Greece Times, which is owned by the Chinese community in Greece. It has a Facebook page, 《China Greece Times》(see URL below). Having said that, no Greek media outlets are owned by PRC citizens or corporations.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media outlets that have delivered cheap or free contents provided by PRC state-fund media.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
One of the significant daily newspapers in Greece, Kathimerini, signed a cooperation agreement with Xinhua in April 2017. A study produced by the Institute of International Economic Relations in Athens finds that in 2020 the English edition of the newspaper carried 66 Xinhua stories on its website, i.e. one every fifth day. Social media outlets have also delivered such content, such as: - the Facebook page of Greece-China Radio (see URL3 below). - the Facebook page of China Radio International(see URL4 below). or the website of CRI-Greece(see URL5 below)
- https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/217828/greek-chinese-news-cooperation/
- https://idos.gr/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Sino-Greek-Relations_in_Media_18-3-2021.pdf
- https://www.facebook.com/greecechinaradio
- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068848134907&ref=aymt_homepage_panel
- https://greek.cri.cn/index.htm
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are regular PRC state-media or government advertisements inserted within local newspapers, online news websites or social media.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There are no such known cases. The Greek service of China Radio International has a Facebook page with a significant following (more than 140,000 followers as of March 2021), but these are most probably Chinese followers: Link
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists who have had pressure exerted on them by the PRC, including (but not limited to) public denouncement, revocation of journalist ID, denial of visa.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No such incidents have been reported.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are incidents of media outlets censoring views critical of the PRC government.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media personalities (including reporters, journalists or commentators) or celebrities who deny the existence of human rights abuses in the PRC (e.g. a media personality that doubts there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
While human rights abuses in Xinjiang are reported by the media, there is no public debate about this issue.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Academia
The Academia Domain measures how the PRC state attempts to restrict academic freedom by influencing or interfering with the Index country’s academic and educational activities.
In my country, universities have established research partnerships with PRC-connected entities. (e.g. Huawei, Tencent or Alibaba)
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In July 2021, the University of the Peloponnese annouced its cooperation with the Huawei ICT Academy (see URL1 below). In December 2021, the University of Western Macedonia announced a cooperation agreement with the Huawei ICT Academy (see URL2 below). In May 2022, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) signed an agreement with Huawei for cooperation with the Huawei ICT Academy on the following subjects taught at AUTh: ΑΙ; ΙοΤ; Cloud Computing; Big Data; Wireless Networks; Security of IT Systems; 5G Technologies; Data Communications, Routing and Switching (see URL3 below). Again in May 2022, Huawei granted 27 Seeds for the Future scholarships to students from 8 Greek universities: The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the National Polytechnic University, the Athens University of Economics and Business, the University of Thessaly, the University of Crete, the University of Macedonia (Thessaloniki), the University of Patras and the University of Piraeus (see URL4 below).
- https://www.epixeiro.gr/article/284363
- https://www.uowm.gr/epikairotita/deltia-typoy/synergasia-toy-panepistimioy-dytikis-makedonias-me-tin-polyethniki-etaireia-huawei/
- https://m.naftemporiki.gr/story/1860883/huawei-kai-apth-upegrapsan-mnimonio-sunergasias-gia-ti-diasundesi-tou-panepistimiou-me-tin-agora-ergasias
- https://www.uom.gr/11765-ypotrofies-se-27-spoydastes-apo-8-ellhnika-aei-sto-plaisio-toy-programmatos-ypotrofion-ths-huawei-seeds-for-the-future
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are Confucius Institutes/Classrooms.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are Confucius institutes at: - the Athens University of Economics and Business, - the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, - the University of Thessaly.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country plans to include, or does include, Chinese as a foreign language in K12 or primary education, and receives free or subsidized (e.g. offered below market price) educational books and teachers from PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, one or more think tanks and academic research centers belong to PRC-affiliated networks/associations (such as: the Silk Road Think Tank Association, Silk Road Think Tank Network [SiLKS], Belt and Road Studies Network, University Alliance of the Silk Road, University Consortium of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, think tanks and academic research centers have received financial support from PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
72 countries answered this indicator; 10 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
There have been various activities jointly organized by Greek institutions and the PRC embassy in Athens or the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) (see the URL above). While financial details have not been publicised, it seems likely that financial support has been recieved from PRC entities, but there is no evidence to back this up.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, experts participate in PRC talent recruitment programs such as the Thousand Talents Program or Changjiang Scholars program.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
69 countries answered this indicator; 13 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
One example, which is likely not isolated, is Mr George Tzogopoulos, founder of the China and Greece blog, and senior researcher at the Hellenic Foundation for Foreign and European Policy (ELIAMEP) was invited to the second Belt and Road Forum in Beijing in 2019 (see the URL below).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, organized PRC-connected student groups, such as Chinese Students and Scholars Associations (CSSAs), are involved in attempts to censor staff or students (e.g. by harassing students protesting human rights abuses in the PRC, or formally complaining about the identification of Taiwan as a country in lecture slides).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars or academics have been denied visas to travel to the PRC after expressing opinions or producing scholarship that is critical of the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities have been involved in school or university curriculum design, such as courses about East Asian history, modern politics, etc.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are confirmed reports of teachers or professors avoiding the discussion of sensitive political issues (e.g. Uyghur re-education camps, Taiwan independence, Tiananmen Square Massacre).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
77 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Economy
The Economy Domain measures the PRC’s economic leverage in the Index country, and how this is used to influence economic policy or corporate behavior in ways that favor the PRC.
The PRC is my country's number one trading partner (for trade in goods only).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Greek main trading partners are in Europe. In 2019, China was not among the top export markets for Greece, and was the fifth biggest importer into the Greek market.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
PRC-connected entities own more than 50% of my country’s sovereign debt.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Some 55% of Greece’s cumulative debt is held by the European Stability Mechanism (ESM). China is not among the major creditors of Greece.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The PRC is the top customer for my country’s extractive industries.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
While there are other extractive industries as well, the main products that Greece exported to China are refined petroleum and marble. Some 60 percent of all exportable raw Greek marble is absorbed by China.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-related entities own, operate or substantially control critical infrastructure (e.g. ports, power plants, digital data centers, etc) or sensitive sectors (biotech, raw materials, etc.)
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
A Chinese state-owned enterprise, COSCO, owns 67% of the stock of the Piraeus Port Authority (see URL1 below). In addition, State Grid, another Chinese state-owned giant, holds a 24% stake in the operator of the high-voltage electricity grid of Greece (see URL2 below). Chinese companies are also involved in power generation - specifically wind - and rolling out fast internet provision.
- https://www.porttechnology.org/news/cosco-increases-piraeus-stake-to-67/
- https://www.naftemporiki.gr/printStory/1175365
- https://www.reuters.com/article/greece-shenhua-group-copelouzos-idAFL8N1N83BE
- http://kpzg.people.com.cn/BIG5/n1/2017/0516/c404389-29279229.html
- https://carnegieendowment.org/2021/10/13/china-s-influence-in-southeastern-central-and-eastern-europe-vulnerabilities-and-resilience-in-four-countries-pub-85415
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country joined (or applied to join) the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, major businesses are members of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce, or of the Belt and Road Industrial and Commercial Alliance, or of the Belt and Road General Chamber of Commerce.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has been the target of PRC economic coercion (e.g. trade or investment sanctions) that was specifically tailored at products or services that are highly dependent on the PRC market.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local businesses have been harassed, threatened, or boycotted, due to their activities or statements in support of causes deemed unacceptable by the PRC government (e.g. Taiwanese independence, Hong Kong democracy, Tibet or Xinjiang issues, etc).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has free-trade agreement(s) with the PRC (either bilateral or as part of regional agreement(s)) that primarily deals with trade in goods or services, including digital goods or services.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
The EU has no FTA with China and it would not be feasible for Greece to strike a bilateral deal with China.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, central or local governments have relaxed or removed regulatory restrictions, or have established special economic zones (or free trade zones, industrial parks, etc.) to attract investments or economic participation from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
It is still worth noting that there was an occasion in the past (2015), when the European Commission challenged some tax exemption clauses in favor of COSCO in the port of Piraeus. The money was retrieved by the Greek state (see the URL above) ; In the past, Greece has supported (along with EU countries such as Sweden and the Netherlands) loosening existing FDI screening mechanisms, but the goal of this was not specifically to make it easier for PRC capital to enter Greece, but FDI in general.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities requisitioned infrastructure or land for failure to repay debts in a timely manner.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Society
The Society Domain measures the extent and effectiveness of the PRC’s efforts to advance its soft power in the Index country, including its influence over the actions and views of local organizations and citizens.
In my country, there are local groups or organizations with words like “Promotion of Peaceful Reunification” in their name, and they regularly publicize their views on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang issues.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.mfa.gov.cn/ce/cegr//chn/xwdt/t208592.htm
- https://www.tellerreport.com/amp/2021-01-22-%0A---greece-china-peaceful-reunification-promotion-association-holds-online-re-election-ceremony%0A--.HkwwNCnDku.html
Supplementary Notes
While there is evidence of the existance of groups such as the Greece-China Peaceful Reunification Promotion Association, there are reservations about their actual existence, i.e. whether they really exist and/or are operational beyond Chinese government outlets and propaganda.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are members and member organizations of United World Chinese Association (世界华人协会).
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
While there is some evidence of such organizations having existed in the past (see URL above), it dates back to 2008 and it is in any case unclear whether they actually existed, or were a product of PRC propaganda.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, labor unions cooperate on exchanges or official visits to the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU) in the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
While there is no evidence of such cooperation or visists, there have been some contacts with PRC entities. There is one available media report about a visit of a delegation from Shaanxi province to the Centre for the Development of Educational Policies of the Greek Labor Confederation (KANEP-GSEE) in 2014. The Chinese delegation was comprised of “social partners and research institutions” (see URL above).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local reports of personnel linked to the UFWD who make appearances at Chinese diaspora community events and activities (e.g. Lunar New Year events, Dragon Boat festival tournaments, etc).
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
It should be noted that there is a growing Chinese community in Greece, not least because of the Golden Visa programme which attracts primarily Chinese citizens. It cannot be precluded that UFWD staff may be part of this community (see the URL above). One individual identified as being the supposed head of the Chines diaspora group in Greece seems to be the deputy minister of UNFW of 大关 county/云南 province, hence we have decided to skip this indicator.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are PRC-connected professional associations that are closely engaged with their counterparts locally, such as All-China Journalists Association (中华全国新闻工作者协会), China Artists Association (中国艺术家协会), China Writers Association (中国作家协会) or All-China Women Federation (全国妇联).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
However, the associations "China Cultural Center in Athens" in question may be linked to the China Cultural Centre in Athens(see the URL above).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities donate money or provide other types of support to religious communities and charities.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Big Chinese SOES (Huawei, COSCO, State Grid) donated masks to various state bodies and non-governmental groups in 2020: see chapter on Greece in the 2020 ETNC report (see URL1 below). In addition, COSCO operating in the sea port of Piraeus has made donations to the local community, e.g. a playground (see URL2 below).
- https://www.ifri.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/etnc_special_report_covid-19_china_europe_2020.pdf
- https://www.olp.gr/en/news/press-releases/item/12267-ppa-s-a-cosco-shipping-creates-a-new-modern-playground-park-and-a-bike-lane-for-the-municipality-of-piraeus
- http://cn.brnn.com/n3/2020/0618/c414912-9701674.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the PRC government or PRC-connected entities distribute entertainment products (including: drama and TV shows) or related hardwares (e.g. OTT streaming players hosting PRC media channels) freely or at a cheap price.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
While there is some evidence on the distribution of such content, such as the above-referenced film festival, the distribution of such entertainment content is very limited. As mentioned in the section on Media, there are intergovernmental agreements for the exchange of content. However, this is primarily related to the domain of news and current affairs.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Cultural products (such as films and TV shows) produced by my country’s production studios typically portray the PRC in a positive light.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x468Vbdrc_k
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z50YbAwO1ps
- https://greekcitytimes.com/2022/04/01/vassilisxiros/
- https://www.neaptolemaidas.gr/2019/11/blog-post_6353.html
Supplementary Notes
While there are some very positive media reports like "Στην Κίνα υπάρχει ΕΡΤ όπου όλοι γνωρίζουν άπταιστα ελληνικά " (see URL1 above), there are also very critical ones like "Σοκάρουν οι εικόνες από τα "Στρατόπεδα Καραντίνας" στην Κίνα | 15/1/22| ΕΡΤ" (see URL2 above). A Greek diplomat, who served as the consul general in Shanghai between 2015 and 2019, has produced a film about the city(see URL3 above). There have been reports about intergovernmental discussions about Sino-Greek cooperation in film production (see URL4 above).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, celebrities regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the national or local governments regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC (e.g. statements from the PRC government or embassies).
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Greek state news agency AMNA and Xinhua have a cooperation agreement, which occasionally leads to joint reports or exchange of content, e.g. this artical "Το Πεκίνο θέλει να ενισχύσει περαιτέρω την συνεργασία του με τις χώρες-μέλη του ASEAN " (see URL below).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, a majority of citizens have positive views of the PRC government.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
While the answer is yes, there have been developments lately. While Greece has traditionally been among the “China-friendly” countries in the EU, the mood has changed for the worse lately, particularly after the outburst of the pandemic.
- https://idos.gr/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/China-Image-in-Greece_9-10-2018.pdf
- https://idos.gr/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Sino-Greek-Relations_in_Media_18-3-2021.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Military
The Military Domain gauges the bilateral military relationship between the PRC and the Index country, including PRC efforts to influence local military personnel.
My country currently imports (or receives in-kind donation of) military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country currently exports military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment to the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country co-develops or co-produces military or law-enforcement equipment with the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports that the PRC has expressed intentions or has taken actions to establish basing.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
It would be almost impossible for a NATO member such as Greece to even consider such an option.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has participated in a humanitarian relief/disaster assistance (HADR) effort.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, People’s Liberation Army (PLA) military personnel are permanently or rotationally deployed (excluding defense attaches and peacekeepers).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, members of the military have received professional military education from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, members of the military have received peacekeeping training from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officers have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public service.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officials advocate for more coordination with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country cooperates with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on military exchange exercises, including drills and war games.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://greekcitytimes.com/2017/07/28/greece-china-joint-military-exercises/
- https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1158090/chinese-defense-minister-in-athens-to-promote-defence-cooperation/
Supplementary Notes
Some cooperation was discussed in the mid-2010s in the area of training. There has been one case, in 2017, of one-day joint naval drills off the coast of Athens. It was deemed highly symbolic, of little practical value. Since then, military cooperation between the two countries has been nil. This may have been one of the reasons for the visit of the PRC Defence Minister to Greece in 2021. Notably, the subject of military contacts between Greece and China is not covered at length by the media.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Law Enforcement
The Law Enforcement Domain measures law enforcement cooperation between the PRC and the Index country, as well as the nature and extent of PRC-related criminal activity in the Index country.
My country currently maintains an extradition treaty, legal mutual assistance or other similar arrangements with the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
While an extradition treaty between the two countries was signed during Xi Jiping’s state visit to Greece in 2019, the treaty has not been ratified by the Greek parliament.
- https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3037250/xi-jinping-hails-greece-deals-model-chinese-cooperation-europe
- https://chinaobservers.eu/xis-visit-to-greece-four-questions-waiting-to-be-answered/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, law enforcement authorities have signed cooperation agreements with the PRC on combatting terrorism.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected gangs (such as Triad, 三合会) are known to be operating in my country.
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
Based on the Reuters report above, it seems there are suspicions that PRC-connected gangs are active in Greece, though it has not been proven conclusively.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of economic espionage targeting the private sector that were suspected to benefit PRC-connected entities.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No reported activities relating to economic espionage. In addition, Greece is not a highly advanced country in terms of technology and does not compare to some other EU member states that excel in this respect.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of cyber attacks targeting government, critical infrastructure, or enterprises that were suspected to be initiated from the PRC.
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://blog.talosintelligence.com/2022/05/mustang-panda-targets-europe.html
- https://www.welivesecurity.com/2022/03/23/mustang-panda-hodur-old-tricks-new-korplug-variant/
Supplementary Notes
The Chinese hacker group "Mustang Panda" has attacked many countries around the world in 2022, including Greece. Mustang Panda has attacked not only governments but also NGO and other private sectors. It is not clear whether it was the Greek government or some other organization that was attacked.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, triads are known to have threatened or used violence to coerce, intimidate or punish Chinese dissidents.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No reports of related activities. At the same time, it should be noted that the Greek state and media do not have insights into the Chinese communities in the country.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has deployed video or internet surveillance systems from the PRC for law enforcement.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.skroutz.gr/c/688/kameres-parakolouthisis/f/917397/Wi-Fi.html
- https://www.skroutz.gr/c/688/kameres-parakolouthisis/f/917398/exoterikou-chorou.html
Supplementary Notes
No reports about state services using Chinese surveillance equipment. At the same time, Chinese cameras are widely available on the market and are purchased by private customers.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, representatives of the PRC police force have had joint patrols with local law enforcement.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
At the same time, given that Greece targets the huge pool of outgoing Chinese tourists, such a prospect may be on the cards in the future, as is the case in Italy or Serbia.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has detained people at the request of the PRC for committing a crime involving engagements with social movements or resistance activities in Hong Kong, Xinjiang or for other human rights or civic rights issues.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.politico.eu/article/greek-police-arrest-activists-olympic-ceremony-disruption-beijing-tibet-protest/
- https://www.dw.com/en/beijing-winter-games-flame-lit-in-greece-amid-protests/a-59536701
Supplementary Notes
However, there was a couple of incidents in October 2021, ahead of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games. Several pro-Tibet activists were arrested for disrupting the flame-lighting ceremony in ancient Olympia. They all had foreign passports (see the URLs above).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has deported Taiwan citizens to the PRC to face prosecution.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has extradited or has deported individuals to the PRC, although such decisions had attracted criticisms from politicians, government employees or from local or foreign NGOs.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Technology
The Technology Domain gauges the PRC’s influence over the technology sector in the Index country, including the activity and financial leverage of PRC companies, use of PRC hardware, and bilateral research partnerships.
In my country, PRC-connected entities (such as China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom) or their subsidiaries provide telecom services.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, telecoms have signed agreements to adopt hardwares or technical specifications of 4G or 5G cellular networks that are produced or developed by Huawei, ZTE or other PRC enterprises.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Until 2020, Huawei made significant inroads into the Greek telecoms market (see URL1 below). Since 2020, Huawei has been eased out of the core of 5G networks in Greece (see URL2 below). ZTE routers are widely used in Greece (see URL3 below).
- https://technode.com/2020/12/09/how-huawei-hooked-greek-telcos/
- https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Huawei-crackdown/Greece-joins-anti-Huawei-camp-as-US-seals-stronger-ties
- https://www.skroutz.gr/c/775/adsl-modem/m/4834/ZTE.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, telecoms have adopted hardware or technical specifications by PRC-connected entities in internet/wifi/telecommunication service infrastructure projects, in addition to 4G/5G cellular network.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
74 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Up to 2020, Huawei made significant inroads into the Greek telecoms market (see URL1 below). Since 2020, Huawei has been eased out of the core of 5G networks in Greece (see URL2 below).ZTE routers are widely used in Greece (see URL3 below).
- https://technode.com/2020/12/09/how-huawei-hooked-greek-telcos/
- https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Huawei-crackdown/Greece-joins-anti-Huawei-camp-as-US-seals-stronger-ties
- https://www.skroutz.gr/c/775/adsl-modem/m/4834/ZTE.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are authorized vendors to supply tech-related equipment or services to our government, military or security services.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No reports about PRC companies supplying equipment or services to government, military and security services. However, Huawei or Xiami mobile phones may very well be used by staff in these services.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, central or local governments have collaboration (such as data collection or exchange agreement, or adoption of related hardwares) with the PRC government or PRC-connected entities on facial, voice recognition or other applications involving biometrics achieved by AI.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, one or more cities have procured, or have signed contracts with PRC-connected entities to establish “smart city” systems.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
While there is evidence that a Chinese company and a Greek University have signed an MoU on developing smart city technologies, there is nothing to suggest that these MoUs have actually been implemented, let alone that contracts between Greek cities and PRC entities have been signed to set up smart cities.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, financial institutions use the China Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) clearing and settlement services system.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No relevant reports. In addition, Greece would not be allowed to use CIPS due to its membership in the European banking union.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected venture capital invests in technology start-ups.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
There are few other reports of PRC-connected venture capital investing in tech startups in Greece.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, companies have publicly announced that they had signed MOUs to collaborate on technological development (such as collaborations in A.I., Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Big Data) with PRC-connected entities.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
During Greek prime minister Alexis Tsipras’ trip to China in July 2016 and his visit to the ZTE’s R&D center, the corporation signed a Cooperation Agreement with the Greek company Forthnet for the development of a next-generation network (NGN). Pacific Century CyberWorks (PCCW Global) is a subsidiary of Hong Kong Telecom (HKT), which is active in the areas of telecommunications equipment, network management, mobile telephony and big data management. The PCCW Global has bought off the Greek start-up company Crypteia Networks, which specializes in security-as-a-service.
- https://www.reporter.gr/Eidhseis/Epicheirhseis/Telecommunication-Equipment-Applications/295147-Synergasia-metaxy-Forthnet-kai-ths-ZTE-ypegrafh-sthn-Kina
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/crypteia-networks/about/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are shareholders or developers of the top five popular social media/messaging apps, based on usage.
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
Notably, in March 2020 TikTok appeared as the most “downloaded” app in Greece, but evidence as to its use is not readily available (see URL above).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the central or local government(s) has collaborated with the PRC on endorsing the use of BeiDou satellite navigation system.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Domestic Politics
The Domestic Politics Domain evaluates PRC efforts to influence the political landscape in the Index country, and the footprint of PRC security companies.
In my country, politicians or government employees at the sub-national level are signing agreements with the PRC government or state-owned enterprises.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
One reservation regarding this question is that twinning agreements are not always reported and their content often remains obscure.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local municipalities have sister-city ties (友好城市) with municipalities in the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Some 20 twinning agreements between Greek and Chinese local authorities are recorded, though the validity of these agreements is not easy to verify. Sometimes, twinning agreements between local authorities (e.g. Athens and Beijing) extend to hospitals.
- https://dimoschalkideon.gr/en/twinning-agreement-paves-way-cooperation-chalkida-wuhan/
- https://greekherald.com.au/news/athens-and-beijing-children-s-hospitals-sign-twinning-agreement/
- https://news-ta.gr/%CF%80%CF%81%CE%BF%CF%89%CE%B8%CE%B5%CE%AF-%CE%B1%CE%B4%CE%B5%CE%BB%CF%86%CE%BF%CF%80%CE%BF%CE%B9%CE%AE%CF%83%CE%B5%CE%B9%CF%82-%CE%B4%CE%AE%CE%BC%CF%89%CE%BD-%CE%BC%CE%B5-%CF%84%CE%B7%CF%82-%CE%BA/
- https://www.ekathimerini.com/multimedia/images/257530/attica-twins-with-china-s-sichuan-region/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
No related details are reported, but it is not inconceivable that politicians, e.g. from local authorities, would avail themselves of invitations and paid-for travel to China. For instance, the president of the Greek Union of Local Authorities visited China in 2017, though it is not clear who covered his travel and accommodation expenses (see the URL above).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees visit the PRC and have meetings with PRC officials and think tanks.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Greek and Chinese officials have signed two three-year Action Plans (2017-2019 and 2020-2022), the Chinese counterpart being NDRC. These plans have not made any difference and appear to be more of a political statement. The Greek coordinator for the implementation of these plans is a deputy minister of foreign affairs, with the title Deputy Minister for Economic Diplomacy and Openness In addition, in March 2022 Greece and China signed an Action Plan for cooperation in the area of tourism over a three-year period (2022-24).
- https://news.gtp.gr/2022/03/15/greece-china-agree-tourism-action-plan-2022-2024-period/
- https://global.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202203/15/WS62300190a310cdd39bc8ca92.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, law enforcement and judicial related training offered the PRC-connected individuals or entities has been accepted by national or subnational governments.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No media reports on such a form of cooperation.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of politicians or political parties receiving campaign donations that originate in the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No media reports on such links.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have hosted fundraisings or have provided other forms of support for government employees, politicians or parties.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No such links have been reported.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have made public statements opposing the candidacy of a local political candidate or party, claiming them being “anti-China”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No such links have been reported.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have publicly expressed positive views of the PRC government.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/253464/greece-committed-to-further-strengthening-ties-with-china-says-georgiadis/
- https://www.tovima.gr/2021/10/27/international/mitsotakis-chinese-foreign-minister-meeting-to-expand-investment-relations-between-the-two-countries/
Supplementary Notes
For the sake of clarification, there are regularly positive statements by public officials about Sino-Greek relations and China as an economic powerhouse. Positive statements about China’s political system are rare, mostly from left-leaning politicians – and, in general, in opposition to what they see as western neoliberal domination in Europe.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public office.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No such links have been reported.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, security services (安保/保安) offered by private PRC companies are contracted by national or subnational governments.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No such links have been reported.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Foreign Policy
The Foreign Policy Domain gauges PRC efforts to achieve diplomatic objectives by influencing key actors in the Index country.
My country’s legislature has a joint parliamentary friendship group, committee or other forms of sub-organizations with PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is a Greece-China Friendship Group in parliament, bringing together 27 MPs (out of a total of 300) from all the political parties. The latest activity of this group reported on the parliament’s website relates to a meeting with a delegation from Sichuan province in October 2019 (see below URL2).
- https://www.hellenicparliament.gr/Diethneis-Drastiriotites/Diethnes-Perivallon/Omades-Filias-All/?countryId=47396220-bd10-4e34-aa16-f651cb703dca&pageNo=1
- https://www.hellenicparliament.gr/Enimerosi/Deltia-Typou/?press=cbe94ec9-8876-431f-91e7-aaed00ff3ac9.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Representatives of a political party in my country’s national legislature have met officially with representatives of the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
As an example, a member of parliament from the New Democracy party has posted on Facebook pictures from his visit to China in November 2019 at the invitation of the CCP (see beolw URL1). No further evidence of this visit is publicly available. In addition, in May 2022 there was an online meeting between the speaker of the Greek parliament and the chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee (see beolw URL2). It was covered by the Greek media as well, e.g. "Τηλεδιάσκεψη Τασούλα με τον Πρόεδρο του Λαϊκού Κογκρέσου της Κίνας: «Πρέπει να λήξει άμεσα ο πόλεμος στην Ουκρανία»" (see beolw URL3).
- https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=286527472305442&set=a.109284620029729
- http://www.chinatoday.com.cn/ctenglish/2018/zdtj/202205/t20220525_800295173.html
- https://www.newsbeast.gr/politiki/arthro/8640723/tilediaskepsi-tasoula-me-ton-proedro-tou-laikou-kogkresou-tis-kinas-prepei-na-lixei-amesa-o-polemos-stin-oukrania
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The PRC provides training to diplomats or civil servants on governance from my country (such as at 国家行政学院 or 中央党校).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have been pressured by PRC diplomats to change their political or diplomatic stances.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No related incidents reported. Having said that, in the past Greece has supported China on its human rights record. In 2017, Greece blocked the release of an EU statement on human rights abuses in China. It is not clear whether this came about under PRC pressure or was a gesture of goodwill by the then government of Greece, which was anti-western and anti-European in its stance.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Citizens of my country have been detained in PRC or denied exit visas, and believed to be suffering from unfair legal treatments for political reasons, a.k.a. “hostage diplomacy”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The head of state, head of government or foreign minister of my country has denied Taiwan’s right to participate as a member, observer or guest in WHO.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
But neither has Greece supported proposals for Taiwan’s accession to WHO.Greece is firmly committed to the One-China policy and is extremely cautious not to cause any stir in relation to China’s sensitivities about Taiwan.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country publicly supported the appointment of a PRC official to be the head of a United Nations agency (such as the FAO or ICAO) or other intergovernmental organizations (such as INTERPOL).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has shown support of PRC's territorial claims (such as on the South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal in July 2016; except claims over Taiwan, which are indirectly covered in indicator 6.)
Support
Skipped
0/ My country has rejected PRC’s claim
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has adhered to PRC’s claim
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In 2016, Greece effectively supported PRC’s claim over the South China Sea, by dismissing the ruling of the international tribunal in The Hague. Greece was one of the three EU member states to challenge the ruling (see the URL below).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Uyghur population.
Silence
Skipped
0/ My country has denounced PRC
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supplementary Notes
Greece has been consistently silent on Xinjiang and has abstained from statements at UN level critical of China.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Tibet population.
Silence
Skipped
0/ My country has denounced PRC
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supplementary Notes
Greece has been consistently silent on Tibet.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has not publicly criticized the PRC’s imposition of the National Security Law on Hong Kong.
Silence
Skipped
0/ My country has denounced PRC
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supplementary Notes
Greece has not distanced itself from EU statements on Honk Kong. However, on several occasions over the past few years, Greece opted for abstaining from statements critical of China on Hong Kong at UN level.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.