A DELEGATION of six officials from Haiyan county in China, visited the Shire of Collie this week.
The visit comes after talks with the Shire about a potential Sister City agreement with the county.
Both the Shire and Haiyan County signed a memorandum of understanding to promote exchanges and cooperation in the fields of; trade, science and technology, culture and tourism.
The agreement also promised to keep in frequent contact about issues that may be of common interest to both Haiyan County and the Shire of Collie.
Shire of Collie CEO David Blurton said the agreement will essentially be an exchange of ideas.
“The agreement essentially means that both sides will exchange ideas for mutual benefit in areas of trade, science and technology, education, tourism and economic development,” he said.
“This is not a sister city relationship but more an agreement to exchange ideas and hold talks.”
“Council considers that it is important to explore and develop this relationship given the potential opportunities that could eventuate.”
“Some of the delegates were from government whilst others had a range of business interest in areas of tourism, agriculture, recycling and many other areas.”
Mr Blurton said in terms of future business prospects, the agreement could potentially open doors for local businesses.
“This offers an exciting opportunity for Collie to potentially access Chinese markets in both business and tourism areas,” he said.
“It can potentially open doors for local entrepreneurs and building strong relationships is important in Chinese culture when doing business.”
“Haiyan County approached Council as they saw similarities with Collie as an important a power generating region.”
Mr Blurton said the delegates and their wives toured the Shire extensively.
“From Council perspective it was important to show them the opportunities which Collie offers,” he said.
“This included a presentation of available industrial land, and visits to areas that have significant potential for further tourism investment such as Lake Kepwari, the Collie Motorplex, Minninup Pool and Wellington Dam.”
“They also visited the new Collie Early Learning Centre and Collie Art Gallery where they purchased some locally produced mementos.”
“In the evening they also attended the Collie Chamber of Commerce and Industry sundowner at the Collie Ridge where they mingled directly with local business operators and later had dinner with Council representatives.”