The Port of Rijeka seems to be of special interest to the Chinese
A delegation of the Chinese National Commission for Development and Reform (NDRC) is very satisfied with the results of the recent visit to Croatia, reports Večernji List on March 14, 2016.
Sources say that Commission’s vice-president Ning Jizhe had successful talks with President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, Prime Minister Tihomir Orešković, and Minister of Maritime Affairs, Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butković. As for the discussions the members of the delegation had at the Port of Rijeka, sources say they were both specific and effective. During its visit to Croatia, the Chinese side was under the impression that the present government is showing more interest in future projects and has a more specific approach to such initiatives.
Meanwhile, the fact that the Chinese prefer the Port of Rijeka to some other Adriatic ports is very important for the Croatian side. NDRC representatives have made it clear that they are also touring some other ports in the region, as a part of the future cooperation concept that will involve connecting different ports. These other ports are Kopar in Slovenia and Bar in Montenegro. However, the Chinese side, including Chinese investors who were part of the delegation, are of the opinion that the Port of Rijeka has a higher natural and economic potential in comparison with other Adriatic ports. The Chinese representatives are waiting for more detailed information about the concession tender related to the container terminal at the Zagreb Pier in Rijeka.
During the stay of the Chinese visitors in the country, the Croatian government has sent a very positive message regarding their interest to invest in Croatia. The formation of the Croatian-Chinese working group is also planned as a part of that favourable environment for the potential future collaboration.
The parties agreed that recent meetings will give a new impetus to further strengthening of relations between Croatia and China, especially in the area of the economy. “In addition, possibilities have been discussed to improve cooperation via three dimensions – bilateral relations, the EU framework and through the mechanism of collaboration with the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (China+16)”, the government announced.
