Sheffield hopes to improve its links with China by developing a ‘sister city’ partnership with Chengdu.
The city, capital of Sichuan province in south-west China, is an important economic centre and is supposedly where paper money first originated.
Chinese Consul General Mr Jian Ni visited the city to discuss the proposed strengthening of links. He said: “Sheffield is a beautiful and modern city. Its regeneration proposals are really impressive. I am sure this link will bring mutual benefits to Sheffield and Chengdu.”
Links between the two cities are already in place as Sheffield United Football Club owns Chengdu’s team, the Chengdu Blades and Sheffield is home to two high profile Chinese stars in Sun Jihai (footballer) and Ding Junhui (snooker player).
Council Leader Paul Scriven who invited the Consul General said: “We are determined to showcase our expertise, skills, products, services and people to the world market and China is a nation that wants to encourage enterprise, ambition and partnership – so it is no surprise that Sheffield, in my view, is a perfect match.”
Chengdu has 11 sister cities globally including Winnipeg in Canada, Montpellier in France and Palermo in Italy. It does not have a British sister city yet so it is hoped that with Mr. Ni’s support the ‘sister city’ proposal can be approved.
Stephen McShane
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