Chinese Consul-General's Kimberley visit could be forerunner of stronger links

13/9/04
China's industrial development could trigger new economic growth in the Kimberley region.
Kimberley Minister Tom Stephens said that demand for resources from China, which has already seen billions of dollars invested in the Pilbara, could soon stimulate new development in the Kimberley.
Last week Mr Stephens accompanied a delegation led by The People's Republic of China's Consul-General, Mr Zhong Ziqi, on a tour of the East Kimberley which included visits to Halls Creek, Kununurra and the Warmun Community. The delegation had also visited Broome and Derby.
"Mr Zhong had the opportunity to learn about the region's potential to help meet the demands of China's resources hungry industries," he said.
"The visit included overflying the Sally Malay mine which produces nickel/copper/cobalt concentrate for export to China and a tour of the Argyle Diamond mine.
"The delegation also experienced what the Kimberley had to offer as a tourism destination with a chance to see high quality indigenous art and visits to tourist attractions such as Halls Creek's own China wall."
Mr Stephens said that resources based investment could bring benefits to the Kimberley through new jobs and business opportunities.
"It will be a major challenge for the State Government and the whole Kimberley community to develop the local capacity to provide the workforce skills and services that the resources sector requires, but the rewards could be enormous," he said.
Minister's office: 9213 6500