Scottish First Minister: Trip enhances links with China
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Wrapping up a six-day visit to China on Friday night in Beijing, Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond said the trip enhanced bilateral economic and cultural relations and cited a number of key announcements while toasting the accomplishments with Scottish whiskey.
"There are significant links that already exist between our two nations and the Scottish Government is committed to strengthening ties with China, which this year is set to overtake Japan to become the world's second largest economy," Salmond said.
The trip aimed at improving Sino-Scottish business cooperation in renewable energy, tourism, education and textiles. The First Minister is leading a series of trade missions organized by Scottish Development International (SDI), Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI) and VisitScotland.
"It's a strong signal of Scotland's international aspirations that there will be three, high-level trade missions in China with me," Salmond said. "The opportunities for Scottish businesses are vast, with China being the world's fastest growing major economy. And our program will be a vital part of realizing this potential for jobs and investment."
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Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond delivers a speech on Friday night in Beijing. (China.org.cn / By Wang Ke) |
Salmond first visited China last year to forge closer links.
China is one of Scotland's most important emerging markets with an increase in visits from 7,000 in 2005 to approximately 11,000 each year from 2007 to 2009, and these visits are said to be worth an average of 7 million pounds to the Scottish economy each year.
A Scottish government spokeswoman told China.org.cn: "The Scottish Government recognizes the importance that renewable energy has for our economy and society and is determined to make Scotland the green, clean energy center of Europe. This is another area where links between both nations can be developed given China's vast potential for renewable energy."
Salmond visited Hong Kong and Shanghai before arriving in Beijing and praised the Shanghai Expo.
"The Shanghai Expo is a unique opportunity to showcase Scottish innovation, culture and heritage to a truly international audience at the biggest visitor event in the world this year," he said.
Also during the trip, Education Secretary Fiona Hyslop promoted collaboration in life sciences, financial services, tourism and education, and sought to boost Scotland's profile as an appealing destination.
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