by Xinhua writer Gao Wencheng
EDINBURGH, Britain, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's diverse city development and expanding investment landscape are creating new opportunities for cooperation between China and Britain, Peter Burnett, chief executive of the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC), said here on Thursday.
Burnett made the remarks in an interview with Xinhua during the China-Scotland Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum. The event, jointly hosted by the China Chamber of Commerce in the UK (CCCUK) and the CBBC, also witnessed the establishment of the CCCUK Scotland Branch.
Burnett had just concluded a 2.5-week trip to China. The visit, he said, offered a clear demonstration of the distinct characteristics and development priorities of Chinese cities.
"In Shenzhen, the focus is on innovation, information technology and artificial intelligence," he said. "Xi'an presents rich historical heritage, while Beijing, as the capital, and Shanghai, as an entrepreneurial hub, each offer unique strengths."
Burnett noted that despite their differences, all of them conveyed a consistent message: China remains open to investment and actively encourages both foreign companies entering the country and Chinese companies going global.
Burnett observed that past investment patterns on both sides tended to concentrate on a limited number of major cities. However, he emphasized that this trend is shifting.
"We now see increasing investment in inland cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an and Wuhan. These cities offer strong industrial foundations and growing market potential," he said.
A similar development is emerging in Britain.
"Chinese companies are beginning to look beyond London when considering Britain as an investment destination," Burnett said. "Here in Edinburgh, we have learned about impressive research and development cooperation with Chinese partners."
Burnett added that sectors including advanced manufacturing, electric vehicles and broader sustainable-technology industries are evaluating regional locations across Britain for new facilities.
According to him, to support this changing landscape, the CBBC has strengthened its engagement with regional economies across Britain.
"One of our priorities is to ensure that our services and expertise cover a wider geographical range," Burnett said. "This is important not only for our UK members, but also for our China-based members exploring investment opportunities beyond London."
