China Shipping launches container shipping services in Moldova

CHISINAU -- China Shipping Group announced on Thursday the official launching of its container shipping services in Moldova, becoming thus the second foreign companies to have the operation in the country's only port of Giurgiulesti.

"The event is of great significance," said Moldovan Deputy Foreign Minister Tudor Ulianovschi at the launching ceremony, stressing that the shipping routes that extend to Moldova will strengthen the country's trade and economic cooperation not only with China, but also with other countries of the world.

The official reaffirmed that the Chisinau authorities support Chinese government's efforts aimed at rebuilding the ancient Silk Road, and is willing to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative advocated by China.

"Moldova welcomes China and Chinese companies to strengthen trade and investment in Moldova," Ulianovschi concluded.

Tong Mingtao, Chinese Ambassador in Moldova, pointed out in his speech that the China-Moldova relationship has get an all-around development in recent year, acquired a great achievement in all areas.

The Moldovan wine, grain, fruit etc, have entered Chinese market, and its market share is continually expanding.

According to him, China's Belt and Road Initiative covers 65 countries, with Moldova among them, and it will help promote economic and social development of the countries concerned.

Liu Zhongping, President of China Shipping (Europe) Holding GmbH, told Xinhua that by extending China Shipping service to Giurgiulesti port, in cooperation with local company Danube Logistics, goods to and from Moldova will be directly connected to China Shipping's trunk routes and its global transport network.

Liu said that his company is optimistic about the markets around the Black Sea, regarding them as complementary to the company's trunk routes.

According to local analysts, China Shipping has the comprehensive advantage of sea-transportation and sufficient source, while Danube Logistics has its own specific geopolitical advantage.

They pointed out that the Belt and Road Initiative provides good cooperation opportunities. China Shipping's new service could greatly simplify the work-flow and procedures and reduce the transportation cost.