A delegation from International Enterprise Singapore visited Xiamen for cooperative talks on matters of smart urban transition, international schooling, flood prevention measures, and industrial park management.
On the evening of Nov 15, Lee Ark Boon, Chief Executive Officer of the trade agency IE Singapore and head of the delegation, introduced the organization's functions in promoting international trade. He expressed the hope that their visit would boost Singapore-Xiamen economic cooperation.
The next morning saw a briefing for the Singaporean guests on Xiamen's 13th Five-Year Plan, and its key industries and free trade policies. Subsequently, Lee spoke on the areas in which he believed cooperation would be most mutually beneficial. He also discussed the possibility of opening an international school and taking advantage of Xiamen free trade zone's preferential policies.
Later on, officials from the commerce bureau of Xiamen described the rapid growth of the city's small and medium-sized enterprises. In turn, the Singaporean guests responded with a proposal for cooperation in the modern service sector.
The delegation was comprised of representatives from a selection of major market players, including the Straco Corporation Ltd, the developer of the Underwater World Xiamen, a major regional attraction on Gulangyu Island.
The delegation visited important local sites including Underwater World Xiamen and Xiamen Planning Exhibition Hall. The short tour offered the visitors the chance to appreciate recent steps in the city's development.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
