The City of Sydney is inviting organisations to take part in celebrations next year to mark the 30th anniversary of its relationship with sister city Guangzhou in Guangdong Province, China.
To strengthen links between the two cities, the City will lead a three to five day campaign of business, civic, economic and cultural activities in Guangzhou between 30 May and 3 June 2016.
The City is calling for expressions of interest from peak industry, educational and cultural organisations to take part in the program.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the program of events in Guangzhou in 2016 will showcase Australia’s leading services economy in a market actively seeking partnerships with local businesses.
“To celebrate our 30-year-strong relationship with Guangzhou, we invite local organisations to join us in an exciting program of events in Guangzhou to further strengthen our ties to China,” the Lord Mayor said.
“Sydney’s connections with China are essential for our economic, cultural and environmental competitiveness, and the 2016 program is a great opportunity for local organisations to join us in developing new business relationships.
“The 2016 program of events and activities will showcase the best of our local industries, business organisations, and sustainability, cultural and creative initiatives in one of the world’s most important evolving markets.”
The City of Sydney’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy prioritises long-term, sustainable connections with China to deliver greater benefits to the local community and economy.
Recent free-trade negotiations with China have opened up new opportunities for the local community and Sydney businesses and support greater trade, investment, tourism and education prospects.
In June 2014, Lord Mayor Clover Moore signed a memorandum of understanding with the Mayor of Guangzhou, Chen Jianhua.
The memo strengthens ties between the two cities, with agreements to work closer on issues including education, trade, culture, business and sustainability.
“We want to make the most of these opportunities and promote Sydney as a leading international business and cultural gateway,” the Lord Mayor said.
“I would like to see the City work with other levels of government and industry partners on a program for the benefit of our business community and local residents.”
The 30th anniversary celebrations are expected to include a series of events in Sydney during the 2016 Chinese New Year festival as well as activities in Guangzhou in May 2016.
Expressions of interest open from 14 July–11 August 2015.