Far Eastern promise

Efforts to twin town

Chinese visitors will be entertained in South Ayrshire in a bid to twin the area with their Far East city.

The council will shell out £ 3400 on hospitality for the delegation from the large city of Liaocheng in mid November.

A report presented to councillors said the experience offered would cater for Chinese “preferences for retail and photo opportunities.”

Chief executive Eileen Howat said: “The initial visit would be used as a scene setter and identify common aspects” between the two locations.

Depute council leader Brian McGinley said: “Across the world China is a huge player in the economic infrastructure.”

The Scotland- China Innovation and Technology Association have spotted similarities between South Ayrshire and Liaocheng.

The delegation, which includes the Liaocheng Mayor, will also visit Edinburgh and St Andrews.

The city is located in the western Shandong province of China.

Councillor William Grant said: “I think there is tremendous potential to work with one of the big players in the world.”

The report put before councillors said the itinerary would offer a flavour of South Ayrshire in terms of culture, tourism, business and education.

The report said: “It is anticipated that the overall itinerary will result in a highly positive and memorable experience for the Chinese delegates.”

They will arrive on November 13 for two days on the quest to find a twin region in Scotland. Goals include encouraging innovation, knowledge, talent exchange and investment between Scotland and the city.