5 December 2017
The First Minister met Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong in Edinburgh to discuss relations between Scotland and China.
Discussion points included gender and social equality, higher education and the cultural connections between the two countries.
FM @NicolaSturgeon met Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong today to discuss relations between Scotland and China. https://t.co/SpA98kYUk4 pic.twitter.com/HG8GbYFpTW
— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) December 5, 2017
The First Minister said:
“I am delighted to have been able to welcome Vice Premier Liu Yandong and the rest of her delegation to Scotland. Scotland and China have a close relationship, and it is one we value.
“One of the main pillars in our relationship with China is the importance of equality and respect for human rights. This is a subject I spoke about during my previous visit to China, and this is something we had the opportunity to discuss again today.
“China is an important export market for Scottish products, particularly food and drink, but also including engineering, pharmaceuticals and financial services. We have strong cultural links, and I’m pleased that Scotland continues to welcome significant numbers of tourists from China.
“In the education field we have increasing numbers of Chinese students choosing to study in Scotland, and 18 of our higher education institutions have academic and research links with their counterparts in China. This is just one area we will be looking to build on in the years ahead.”
The Vice Premier was in Scotland for a number of engagements at the start of her official visit to the UK.
Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop attended a cultural forum with the Vice Premier at the National Galleries of Scotland, organised by the British Council.
Welcoming Vice Premier of China Madam Liu Yandong & @culturescotgov Cabinet Secretary Fiona Hyslop to @NatGalleriesSco in Edinburgh with partners + guests from UK & China’s cultural sectors #UKChinaPeople2People pic.twitter.com/Jk1g6XINi4
— British Council (@BCScotland) December 5, 2017
A number of regional representatives from China and the UK met to discuss regional cooperation between Scotland and China. The meeting was chaired by Ms Hyslop and also attended by the First Minister.
