This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scotland and China
06/10/2004
The Scottish government is to have a full-time
representative based in Beijing to help strengthen
Scotland's links with China, it was announced today.
First Minister Jack McConnell made the
announcement ahead of his visit to China next week where he
will meet with senior Chinese politicians, educationalists
and business leaders.
He said:
"Earlier this year, I announced our plans to promote
Scotland to the world. We need to attract fresh talent and
show the world that we are hungry for success.
"And our next step will be with one of the world's
largest and most dynamic countries - China.
"As China's economy continues to grow and it enhances
its international relationships still further, I believe
Scotland has a unique opportunity to become one of its most
responsive and friendly partners.
"There are already strong links between our two
countries, but I want to expand and deepen them. We have
many areas of expertise we can share with China - our
education system, our justice system and our academic
excellence are respected and trusted throughout the
world.
"Our financial services industry is one of the best and
our engineering companies have a global reputation for
excellence.
"The establishment of this post is a strong signal that
we are determined to build a long-lasting, sustainable
relationship with China that will benefit both
countries."
It is expected that the post will be established next
year. Its responsibilities will include:
- promoting Scotland, including the Fresh Talent
project
- liaison with Scottish and UK agencies working in
China
- encouraging people-to-people exchanges at all
levels
Scotland's devolved government already has
representatives in Washington and Brussels. Scottish
Development International has a network of offices
overseas.