As a Sci-Tech Think Tank Platform with distinctive features and a strategic focus on Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries, the China-CEEC Innovation Cooperation Research Center (hereinafter referred to as “the Research Center”) has been continuously expanding its international collaboration network, deepening multi-field exchanges and cooperation, while enhancing its global influence and think tank brand. In 2026, the Research Center embarked on a new model of international communication. After careful preparation, we are cordial to launch the “China-CEEC Think Tank Exclusive Interview Series”.

For the first episode, we are honored to invite Professor Grigoris Zarotiadis — Member of the Governing Council of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece, and also a Part-time professor at the Research Center.

Welcome to the first episode of the Think Tank Exclusive Interview Series: “Innovation Cooperation: Bridging Eastern and Western Wisdom”

Together, we accompanied Professor Zarotiadis on a visit to:

• The History Exhibition Hall of Ningbo University of Technology, tracing the growth of a dynamic university;
• The Ningbo City Exhibition Hall, touching the past, present, and future of the city;
• The Meishan Port Area of Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, experiencing the grandeur of one of the world’s busiest ports;
• The Permanent Exhibition Hall of CEEC Specialty Products, feeling the vibrant pulse of cross-border trade between China and CEE countries.

Each step revealed new insights. Professor Zarotiadis not only gained a deep understanding of Ningbo’s historical roots, urban development, and cultural landscape but also witnessed firsthand the vitality of the city’s port economy and the thriving trade in specialty goods between China and Central and Eastern Europe.

This exchange not only deepened the foundation of our bilateral cooperation but also injected strong new momentum into innovative and collaborative development between China and Greece.