26/04/2005

Oto strengthens ties with China

Otorohanga district strengthened its ties with China during a recent social visit from the Chinese consul-general.
Consul-general of the People's Republic of China, Ma Chongren and his wife, vice-consul Hong Xiaobing, called into Otorohanga District Council as they passed through enroute to their Auckland office.
During their brief visit, council staff presented them with a paua ornament as a gift on behalf of the district.
In return Mr Chongren presented the district with a porcelain ornament.
Mayor Dale Williams said the exchanging of gifts is important as it "signifies the trade that takes place between China and the Otorohanga district".
Mr Williams took the recent visit as a chance to discuss issues of common interest with Mr Chongren, including future trade opportunities.
"If there are businesses in the district that are looking to open doors in China we have that link."
He described the visitors as "very lovely, charming people" and said he intends to visit them next time he is in Auckland.
"We've always had a very, very strong relationship with the people of China," he said.