A SOUTH Scotland Labour MSP has been appointed as the Deputy Convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on China.

Colin Smyth took over the role at their recent AGM In the Scottish Parliament. The Group, made up of MSPs from across Parliament, as well as individuals and organisations from across Scotland including East Ayrshire Council.

The Cross Party Group aims to promote relations between Scotland and China, not only in recognition of the crucial importance of China as an economic power, but also of the role of China as a cultural force. The Group seeks to work with organisations and authorities to increase cultural, educational and economic exchange between the two countries, to develop a dialogue with the Chinese Consulate in Edinburgh, and to engage with the Chinese community across Scotland.

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said, “It’s a privilege to take on this role with the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on China. Asia is a part of the world I have a particular interest in. The cultural and economic links between Scotland and China go back centuries but are as important today as they have ever been, from the academic links with our local colleges and universities to the work of the chamber of commerce who are building those key business opportunities in Asia for firms across Scotland. East Ayrshire Council are members of the Cross Party Group and South Ayrshire Council have been leading the way in their educational links with China and in the twinning arrangement with Liaocheng. As we celebrate the Chinese New Year it’s also important to remember that there is a sizeable Chinese community across Scotland including Ayrshire who have made this country their home, adding enormously to the cultural diversity we enjoy.”