China-Scotland deeper relations encouraged

China's Ambassador to the United Kingdom Zheng Zeguang made a visit to Edinburgh, Scotland from Aug 4 to 6, where he met local government officials and leaders from a Chinese clean-energy supplier operating in the area and encouraged stronger connections.

During his meeting on Aug 6 with John Swinney, Scotland's first minister, Zheng praised the long-term close ties between China and Scotland and called for enhanced bilateral exchanges and cooperation, especially as China seeks to deepen its reform comprehensively.

As the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China concluded in July, Zheng highlighted that the resolution adopted of more than 300 reform measures will further invigorate society and promote high-quality development, thus bringing fresh opportunities to countries worldwide, including the UK.

Swinney echoed the sentiment. He said the progress of China is recognized by the world and Scotland values its sustained, friendly cooperation with China, noting that China has become Scotland's largest source of imports and stands as an important export market.

Scotland is willing to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with China in sectors including trade and economics, education, tourism, new energy, medical and health services, infrastructure, and more, and it welcomes more Chinese investors, tourists, and students to visit for business, sightseeing, and academic pursuits, Swinney added.