Municipality rolls out red carpet for Nanchang delegation

Building bonds between China and South Africa, Newcastle Municipality has taken steps in ensuring foreign investment.

On Wednesday, Mayor Afzul Rehman and municipal officials met with a delegation from Nanchang, China, at Blackrock Casino.

“We share a common vision of building a stronger economy and creating job opportunities for our people,” Cllr Rehman said.

As there is already a strong Chinese presence in Newcastle, and approximately 150 Chinese-owned businesses, Cllr Rehman was enthusiastic about the delegation’s visit.

“We have a strong understanding of the Chinese culture, as we are growing to understand each other. We would like to attract more investment and are excited that you came to visit us.”

Gulan Zhou, Chairman of Nanchang People’s Political Party, said the visit was made with the intention of forming a sister relationship between Nanchang and Newcastle.

“Newcastle has a good foundation, especially in terms of the steel and chemical industries. In Nanchang, we have four pillar industries, which are the automobile, electronic information, magazine and textile industries,” Mr Zhou said.

Impressed with Newcastle’s textile industries, Mr Zhou said he was sure there would be opportunities in the nearby future.

“Through co-operation and development, your point of bringing more Chinese business might prove beneficial. Through our discussions, we feel there is potential in your textile industries. I hope we can strive together in supplying the necessary platforms,” Mr Zhou added.

Cllr Rehman said as South Africa was the best place to sell a product, Newcastle was in an ideal location to do this.

“We are close to all the major cities, linked to them through railways.”

Regarding the current electricity crisis in South Africa, Cllr Rehman said he was interested in getting into contact with solar-powered enterprises based in Nanchung to possibly bring renewable energy to Newcastle to ensure the community would not have to suffer.

“We can look at ways the government can support such initiatives,” Mr Zhou said.

With the formalities done, the delegation enjoyed a meal with municipal officials as a way to form further bonds.