THE growing business links between China and the North-East were further fostered by a visit to the region by Deng Boqing, Consul-General from the People's Republic
Mr Deng met Chinese investors in the region and visited research centres during a whistle-stop tour.
Mike Collier, chief executive of regional development agency One NorthEast greeted Mr Deng at the agency's headquarters, at Newburn Riverside.
He said: "The North-East is ahead of other UK regions in establishing commercial links with China.
"One NorthEast is determined to maintain this advantage."
During his visit Mr Deng pressed the button that opens the blinking eye of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge. He said: "I have been very impressed with the region from what I have seen.
"There is great support for business to be successful there, and the area seems like a very exciting and varied place to live."
The North-East is home to 18 Chinese companies and the Consul-General's visit is being used as a platform to promote the wealth of business opportunities available to firms from the Far East in the region, and for local businesses in China.
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