Chinese leader visits Birmingham to launch latest MG

BIRMINGHAM’S MG factory is to be the first stop on a UK visit by Chinese premier Wen Jiabo this weekend when he launches the latest MG model.

The Chinese leader will arrive at Birmingham Airport before travelling to Longbridge to view the MG Motors plant – owned by the Shanghai Automotive Industry Company –  where he will hand over the keys to the new MG6 Magnette model to city council leader Mike Whitby.

The visit follows David Cameron’s trip to China in November last year, and Mr Jiabo will later head to London for talks with the Prime Minister and German leader Angela Merkel.

The Premier’s visit comes as China revealed it wanted to build the UK’s controversial high speed rail link, HS2. Chinese ambassador Liu Xiaoming said yesterday his country had “the knowledge, expertise and experience” to assist with the line. Chinese companies would build on their experience at home to bid for major infrastructure projects overseas, he said.

Cllr Whitby said: “This visit is an endorsement from the very top of the Chinese state of the importance of the relationship between Birmingham and China.

“Over the last seven years we have made great strides to ensure Birmingham’s connections with China were prioritised and enriched, helping to build a strong relationship for this city with a growing economic superpower.”

Wen Jiabao’s visit builds on Birmingham’s business ties with China, of which SAIC’s ownership of MG and its site at Longbridge is the best-known example.  SAIC, one of the 10 largest car makers in the world, recently announced its decision to resume MG production at the site – retaining 400 jobs.

The company also announced the opening of a £5m design studio and technical centre at Longbridge.