Last week ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher took part in the Australian Government led program, Australia in China Week. As part of the ACT Government's participation in the program, the Chief Minister met with a series of leaders and investors in the Chinese business and education sectors to promote Canberra as a preferred destination for trade, investment and education.

"The ACT is already forging strong links with China particularly with tertiary education institutions and this trip provides the ACT with an important opportunity to re-connect with those institutions while also establishing new links with business and other educational organisations," the Chief Minister said.

"Being part of this important relationship building program will lift the profile of Canberra in China as an important destination for two-way trade, investment, student recruitment and of course tourism visitation."

A centrepiece for the trip was promoting the ACT Government's City to the Lake and Capital Metro projects.

"The City to the Lake project will bring the city centre to life with the possibility of a new convention centre and stadium as well as the development of the West Basin Foreshore to recreational and business opportunities” the Chief Minister said.

"While this is a big and exciting project for Canberra, we also need to consider the best model to deliver the project in an economically responsible way and this of course involves investment.”



Deputy Chief Minster Andrew Barr said that response to the project had been positive both from Canberrans and potential interstate and international investors.

"This is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities in Australia and is a unique opportunity for investors" Minister Barr said.

"Any investment that may stem from the government's engagement during the Chief Minister's trip and in other forums will have a benefit to the local economy and help to make the plans of City to the Lake a reality."

Many Canberra businesses have built up close ties with China over the years and the Chief Minister’s trip to China has only strengthened these relationships.

"It's my intention to ensure that existing relationships with China continue to strengthen, and that we grasp every opportunity to foster new ones, particularly in business, education and diplomatic arenas," the Chief Minister concluded.