Description
Both China and the UK believe that economic growth must come from all regions. The UK’s Prime Minister, Theresa May, has outlined her ambition to create an economy that works for all. President Xi has prioritised creating stronger economic growth outside China’s Tier 1 cities.
To support this objective, the Shaanxi Development and Reform Commission is working with the British Embassy Beijing to create a platform for regions from both countries to outline the economic and investment opportunities, both capital investment and FDI, in their regions.
The UK’s Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government will and a Shaanxi Regional leader will introduce the event followed by leaders from Edinburgh, the Midlands Engine, the Northern Powerhouse, Xi’an, Baoji and Weinan.
All of these areas have a strong investment opportunities: Edinburgh is driving growth in Scotland and predicted to maintain annual growth of 2.1% between 2017 and 2020; the Midlands Engine is home to over 10 million people and 440,000 large and small businesses; the Northern Powerhouse saw inward investment projects increase by nearly 25% in 2015/6; growing at twice the national average and creating 13,700 new jobs.
Similarly, Xi’an is one of the major growth engines of inland China with renowned educational institutions and a thriving culture and tourism industry; Baoji and Weinan form the central axis of the Guanzhong city plain with new high tech zones and a focus on advanced manufacturing, electronics, IT, pharmaceuticals and the bioengineering industry.
Agenda
| 14.00 – 14.05 | Introduction from Shaanxi DRC
|
| 14.05 – 14.15 | Welcome Speech from Shaanxi Provincial Leader |
| 14.15 – 14.25 | Welcome Speech from Baroness Fairhead, Minister of State at the Department for International Trade |
| 14.25 – 14.45 | Introduction to Edinburgh – Lord Provost of Edinburgh Council |
| 14.45 – 15.05
| Introduction to the Midlands Engine – Ian Curryer, CEO of Nottingham City Council |
| 15.05 – 15.30 | Introduction to the Northern Powerhouse – TBC |
| 15.30 – 15.50 | Introduction to Xi’an |
| 15.50 – 16.10 | Introduction to Baoji |
| 16.10 – 16.30 | Introduction to Weinan |
| 16.30 – 17.00 | Q&A for All Regions |
If you are interested in investing in these regions in China or the UK please make sure you sign up for this event.
UK Contact: Liberty.timewell@fco.gov.uk