Shanghai Mayor Yang Xiong met Australian Ambassador to China Jan Adams last week. Yang said the two countries have close economic and trade ties and frequent exchanges.
He said Shanghai wants to strengthen cooperation with Australia for mutual benefits against the backdrop of global economic downturn.
The mayor noted that Shanghai is deepening reforms and pushing for more opening in China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone. Australian companies are welcome to invest and operate in the zone.
Yang said that Shanghai is speeding up its transformation into a global innovation center. The city tries to attract more young entrepreneurs to start businesses in the city. The Shanghai government hopes Chinese and Australian universities and research institutions can set up a joint platform for innovation and business creation.
He said Shanghai wants to play a bigger role in Sino-Australian relationship. The municipal government will support the holding of Australian Week in Shanghai.
Jan Adams said the two countries enjoy sound relationship. Their economies are complementary. The Australian government and business circles make Shanghai a top priority for broad exchanges and cooperation.
She believed the second Australian Week in Shanghai will help boost bilateral cooperation in finance, education, tourism and science and technology.
Australian Consul General in Shanghai Graeme Leslie Meeha attended the meeting.
