SIMIC

The deal sees state-owned Cosco take an additional 16 per cent stake in the Mediterranean sea port, a container ship hub for Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.

Cosco says China's involvement in Piraeus has helped it develop, citing increased container traffic. But the Chinese presence remains contentious among locals accusing the company of failing to meet its obligations.

Cosco acquired a 51 per cent stake in operator Piraeus Port Authority in 2016 for about EUR280 million (US$326 million at current rates). It has provided no further details about this additional investment.

With the second phase of its share acquisition, the shipping conglomerate will expand its investment, increase its input of resources and launch new shipping routes to build the port into a regional logistics distribution centre, said Cosco chairman Xu Lirong.