This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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China Challenge Conference
07/10/2005
First Minister Jack McConnell today called on Scottish businesses to seize the opportunities presented by the world's fastest growing economy.
Mr McConnell was speaking as he delivered the keynote speech at the China Challenge Conference in Edinburgh.
More than 400 Scottish companies will gather in Edinburgh to hear first hand from Scots businesses who have already been successful in the country.
The First Minister also announced the appointment of Lucy Watkins as the First Secretary for the new Scottish Affairs Office in Beijing.
First Minister said:
"China is one of the world's fastest growing economies, and I urge Scottish businesses to capitalise on the opportunities that exist there.
"Last October I saw for myself how successful some Scottish companies have already been in China, and I want other companies to follow their example.
"That is why we are having this conference today. And that is a major reason why today I am announcing the appointment of a First Secretary to represent Scotland's interests in China.
"If Scottish businesses seize this chance to expand their markets, they will not regret it. But success in China needs a consistent long term commitment. Through educational and cultural partnerships, and support for ambitious businesses, we will help more Scottish companies achieve that success."
Lucy Watkins, First Secretary for the new Scottish Affairs Office in Beijing said:
"I am really excited by this opportunity and can't wait to get started. The Executive and many other organisations and people in Scotland have already built strong links with China and I will be ensuring we build on these foundations.
"The new Scottish Affairs Office gives us a presence in Beijing and I will be working hard in partnership with SDI and others to ensure Scotland's voice is heard in China."
Over 500 delegates will attend the conference, and more than 400 Scottish companies will gather in Edinburgh to hear first hand from Scots businesses who have already been successful in the country. Those attending are as diverse as Celtic, IBM, Glover Fish and Chips, J. Barbour and Sons, Murray International Holidays and Standard Life.
Sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland and organised by SDI, the conference seeks to give Scottish businesses the advice and support they need to expand to China.
Speakers include the Royal Bank of Scotland, Clyde Blowers, The China Britain Business Council, Scottish & Newcastle, and the Chinese Consul General.
The First Minister visited the Standard Life, Clyde Blowers and Howden Group offices in Beijing during his visit to China in October 2004.
Mrs Watkins (38) is employed by the British Council and her current posting is in Thailand. She has served with the British Council in Beijing and has also taught in China. She graduated in Chinese from Edinburgh University. She will take up the post on secondment from the British Council and it is expected this secondment will last three years.
Mrs Watkins was appointed after an open recruitment process. Her salary will be in the pay range £40,441 to £56,600.
The Scottish Affairs Office in Beijing will be based in the British Embassy. The job of new First Secretary is to lead, represent and develop Scotland's profile and interests in China. A key task is to facilitate and enhance Scotland's public affairs in China, building long lasting culture, education, economic, business and other links, by working along with Scottish agencies responsible for these policy areas.