Minister to visit Sister State Zhejiang (China)

19/9/97

Western Australia's Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan will visit China next week.

Mr Cowan will participate in the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Western Australia-Zhejiang Sister State / Province relationship.

"The relationship has brought benefits to both regions," Mr Cowan said.

"It is important that we continue to work to build our economic and cultural links with China, which is growing in importance as a trading partner."

The Minister will attend the second general meeting of the Western Australia-Zhejiang Economic Exchange Committee, which he co-chairs with the Zhejiang Vice Governor, Long Anding.

Mr Cowan will also visit Shanghai and Beijing. He will be in China from September 20 to October 1.

Participants in the visit will include members of the Western Australia-Zhejiang Economic Exchange Committee. The WA Chinese Chamber of Commerce will send a delegation of 12-15 members to China to coincide with the visit.

In Beijing, Mr Cowan will discuss iron ore processing issues with the Ministry of Metallurgical Industry (MMI) and grain and barley exports from WA with China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuff Import and Export Corporation.

He will also inspect several joint Australian-Chinese ventures and operations run by WA organisations in both Shanghai and Beijing.

Zhejiang has planned a reciprocal visit to WA by a senior leader of the province in November. Media contact: Peter Jackson 9222 9595