Chinese envoy receptive to Iloilo-China direct flights

Friday, February 24, 2012

CHINESE Ambassador Ma Keqing gave a positive response to the proposal of having direct flights from Iloilo to any city in China after being impressed with the city’s cleanliness and the Ilonggos’ warm welcome.

The Ambassador and Chinese Embassy Consul General Zhang Weiguo are in Iloilo City on February 24-25 to grace the 100th anniversary of the Iloilo Central Commercial High School, the first Filipino-Chinese school outside of Manila.

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Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the Ambassador also extends an invitation for at least three city officials to participate in a training seminar to be held in Beijing, China on April 16-29.

ILOILO. Chinese Ambassador Ma Keqing (2nd from right) is welcomed by Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. and Provincial Administrator Raul Banias (3rd and 2nd from left, respectively) at the governor’s office. (Contributed photo)

The training seminar will showcase Chinese opportunities on employment promotion and economic development, Mabilog said.

Mabilog said the Chinese envoy is particularly interested in industries for Chinese inventors and assembly plants and small factories for semiconductors.

Iloilo City is rich in human resources to provide educated and skilled manpower with the presence of six universities, several colleges and training schools here, he said.

With a direct flight from Iloilo to China and expansion of the Iloilo commercial port, the mayor said, the city will be open for international business with Asian countries. (Lydia C. Pendon)