Leese aims to build China links

MANCHESTER City Council leader Sir Richard Leese has participated in the launch of the construction of the new British Consulate General in Wuhan, China.

The British Consulate, in Corporate Centre 5 of Wuhan Tiandi, will officially open to public later this summer.

It is the fourth British Consulate in China, in addition to the British Embassy China in Beijing, and consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chongqing.

Sir Richard was accompanied by British Ambassador to China Barbara Woodward, vice mayor of Wuhan, Shao Weimin and British consul-general in Wuhan Nick Whittingham.

Whittingham also announced the launch of operations of UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and British Council in Wuhan.

The two teams began working in Wuhan recently and will further explore ways to enhance relations between the UK and Wuhan.

Sir Richard said: “Manchester and Wuhan have been sister cities for many years and the relationship has gone from strength to strength.

“I’m delighted to lead such a significant Manchester delegation to Wuhan to further deepen our relations and the opening of this new consulate is a significant moment.

“Manchester and Wuhan have much in common and I’m sure our ever-growing links will benefit the citizens in both cities, opening up new opportunities for economic and cultural connections.”

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