ATHENS, Nov. 29 (Xinhua) — Greek President Karolos Papoulias said here Thursday that the Greek government is willing to provide any assistance it can for the Beijing Olympic Games and wishes the games great success.

    He said that the first direct flight from Beijing to Athens by Air China arrived Thursday and the new connection would promote cooperation in the areas of the Olympic Games, tourism and culture between the two countries.

    Papoulias made the remarks while receiving the credential letters from China’s new ambassador to Greece, Luo Linquan.

    He also met the chairman of the board of Air China, Li Jiaxiang, congratulating him on the opening of the direct flight between Beijing and Athens.