Ipswich’s position as a major regional centre in the East of England was highlighted when a delegation of Chinese business and civic leaders visited the town.
Its rapid growth and proximity to London, Cambridge and the Port of Felixstowe, along with its strong hi-tech and financial sectors made it an important focus for investment, said Ipswich Borough Council Leader David Ellesmere.
"Creating and sustaining jobs and skills is the top priority for us. We welcome our Chinese guests here today and have shown them some of the developments we have made here in Ipswich – the new university, the new homes and businesses on the Waterfront and the geographical and economic advantages the town has and the opportunities for investment."
The visitors from Wenzhou toured University Campus Suffolk and the Waterfront before meeting the Mayor, Councillor Bill Quinton, to sign an historic friendship agreement between the two towns.
The Mayor told his guests: "I hope you have enjoyed your short tour of Ipswich and that you have gained a good understanding of our town's importance as an economic regional centre and one of the fastest growing centres in the country.
It is a great honour for me, as Mayor of Ipswich, to sign this friendship agreement. I believe that this is an important document that will bring us closer together with an understanding of our cultures and economies."
Photo: Council Leader Councillor David Ellesmere, Councillor Carole Jones and the Mayor and Mayoress of Ipswich meet high level Chinese delegation.
