Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis promised on Saturday that his Government will provide assistance in every possible way to make 2008 Beijing Olympic Games successful.

"I would like to assure you that Greece will assist in every possible way the effort of the Chinese government so that the Games of Beijing will be outstanding in all aspects, and a true reflection of the long history and rich culture of China, as well as its current status as a world political and economic power," said Karamanlis in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

"Greece is ready to offer her expertise and know-how whenever this is asked for," he said.

He noted that two Chinese Olympic delegations have already visited Greece and the Alternate Minister for Culture and Athletics, Ms Petralia, has already visited China twice and has signed a relevant memorandum of cooperation with the Chinese government.

He told Xinhua that the successive hosting of Olympic Games by Greece and China has greatly improved the bilateral relations.

"The fact that China is succeeding Greece in organizing the next summer Olympic Games, has greatly upgraded our countries' bilateral ties," he said.

"It has brought to the forefront our two countries' parallel historical courses and their great contributions to world culture," he added.

"It has increased the quality of our bilateral relations, especially our cooperation in areas of mutual interest."

He admitted that the price tag for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, around 13 billion euros, is a burden too much for a small country like Greece.

"The cost is extremely elevated for a small country like Greece, the economy of which is likely to be affected for many years to come."

Meanwhile, he noted that it's cost worthy.

"The particularity of this unique investment is that it is made all at once and within a limited amount of time, while its return is measured in the long run, and is not limited to financial gains."

"That is, the reshaping of urban areas, improvements in infrastructure and services, the publicity gained, the increase in the number of visiting tourists, new investments, the improvement of the environment and in quality of life, are some of the parameters that, when added up, render our investment worthwhile."

He stressed that it is widely accepted that the Olympic Games of Athens were among the most successful Games in history, so there must be a high price to pay for.

On the post-Olympic use of Olympic facilities, he stressed thata specific business plan has been underway, adding that the parliament has passed the business strategy into law.

"The venues are being used for temporary athletic events, cultural events, exhibits and other events so as to cover their maintenance costs." he said.

He also suggested that China should avoid the same mistakes of Greece.

"In the case of China, I would suggest that China, at this time, formulate a business plan for post-Olympic utilization, so that the plan can be implemented the day after the Olympic Games closing ceremony."