Thursday carrying the first group of Chinese nationals being evacuated from strife-torn Libya. Greece has agreed to offer hospitality to Chinese evacuees arriving from Libya, who will stay on Crete until arrangements are made for their return to China.
The first passengers disembarked from the "Hellenic Spirit" and were taken to hotels where they will be housed.
A second ship provided by the shipping firm "ANEK Lines" also arrived shortly before 3:00 p.m. with the remaining Chinese nationals that will be staying at hotels on the island.
On the scene are the Chinese Ambassador Luo Linquan and the head of the Crete regional authority who are coordinating the operation.
In statements earlier, the ambassador praised the Greek government's prompt response and offer of assistance to China, saying that "it was a moment that would remain in the history of relations between the two peoples".
source: ANA-MPA
