Madame Zhang Meifang, Northern Ireland Chinese Consul General and a delegation of business and educational leaders have arrived in Co Antrim to look at possible investment opportunities.
They were welcomed to the borough by Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman John Smyth for a lunch and tour of Antrim Castle Gardens.
The Mayor said the aim is to establish a mutually beneficial friendship with counterparts in China to share information and to help bring young people together and equip them to build better futures and to learn more about each other’s cultures.
Speaking after the event, Chief Executive of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Jacqui Dixon highlighted the importance of growing the prosperity of the Borough .
“One of the key priorities for the council is growing the economy, with China identified as a vital partner to those investment plans. Closer ties will allow opportunities for mutually beneficial business links through job creation and prosperity both here and in China,” she added.
Madame Zhang said Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is not only rich in agricultural and tourism resources, but also has advantages and characteristics in the fields of economy, trade, education, culture and tourism.
“What’s more, the council has increased its investment in innovation and digital economy, tourism, infrastructure, occupation education and other fields. I believe there is great potential for furthering the cooperation between China and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council,” she added.
Guests at Mossley Mill included representatives from the PSNI, educational officials from Ulster University, Northern Regional College, Parkhall Integrated College and business leaders from CDE Global, Sensata Technologies and Environmental Street Furniture.
Brian McClean from Sensata said collaboration between Northern Ireland and China is crucial to allow Sensata to continue securing new business opportunities.
And Tony Convery from CDE Global said China is an important market for any global company and the meeting with Madame Zhang is a fantastic first step for our company.
Alan Lowry from Environmental Street Furniture said they are actively involved in pursuing the expanding experience attraction market in China, and they are excited about the opportunity to develop a relationship with Madame Zhang in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.