South West hosts delegation from China - 2 October 2008
China’s interest in the South West corner of Australia continues to grow, with another group of high-ranking Chinese delegates visiting the region to learn about investment, education and tourism opportunities.
Members of the group, including Wang Yongda the Minister-Counsellor for the Chinese Embassy in Canberra, today visited the South West Development Commission in Bunbury.
Afterwards, they travelled to Bunbury’s Dolphin Discovery Centre before making their way to Margaret River and Augusta.
Gary Sigley, director of the Confucius Institute, led the tour as part as an offshoot of the recent Australia-China Social Policy Forum.
“I really want to give the delegates an awareness of the modern industries, commerce and lifestyle, and government, outside of Perth,” he said.
“The tour is an opportunity for them to understand what the South West is all about.”
China’s interest in the South West has swelled recently, with a number of delegations promoting economic growth between the regions.
Other initiatives to strengthen ties have included a Critical Horizons seminar which was held in Bunbury earlier this year. The seminar addressed ways local people could make the most of China’s rapidly growing economic relationship with the South West.
Future plans include the establishment of a Bunbury-Jiaxing Trade Office to encourage increased investment, exports, education services, local manufacturing development and expansion of local businesses overseas.
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Media contact:
Teneille Watson
Community Relations Officer