Chinese delegation visits Newcastle

A delegation from Dezhou, China, visited the municipality last Thursday.

The purpose of the visit was to form a bond between Newcastle and Dezhou, in the hope of forging economic development within the two cities.

Matthew Shunmugam, Portfolio chairperson of human settlements, welcomed the delegation with open arms and said the Newcastle municipality strove to combat poverty and create job opportunities.

“Investments from the Far East have brought in a lot of jobs in the past, therefore we welcome the business delegation which could assist in further investments and job opportunities in the future,” he said.

He referred to the substantial development of Newcastle over the past few years and said fostering a sister city relationship between Newcastle and Dezhou, would positively benefit both cities economically.

Lijun Wen, the head of the delegation, claimed it was an honour to be in Newcastle. Mr Wen, gave a brief economical synopsis of Dezhou, and emphasised it was a fast growing city which was a central business hub, situated between Beijing and Shanghei.

“We have recently implemented platforms for relationships for home and abroad, having already formed seven sister city relationships. Newcastle has a lot of advantages, such as the situation of the town and in terms of potential. I believe we can further our relationship and form a sister city agreement as soon as possible,” he said.

The Chinese Consulate General from Durban, Minseng Diao, who accompanied the delegation, said he had seen a lot of effort from the Newcastle Municipality in developing the town and it was important for the two cities to strengthen bonds between two countries.

“The efforts are much appreciated and I sincerely hope the continued efforts will see the relationships strengthen,” he concluded.