AN agreement to strengthen business, education and cultural links with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies has been signed.
Representatives from Sunderland, including prominent members of the business and education groups, have been in China to sign a friendship agreement with the city of Harbin – the provincial capital of the Heilongjiang Province.
The agreement was signed at a ceremony in Harbin by the city council’s chief executive Dave Smith and the Mayor of Harbin.
To coincide with the signing, pupils from Hetton School raised the Chinese flag alongside the Union Jack at the Civic Centre building.
Hetton School is already set to develop a partnership with Number 76 Middle School, in Harbin. Pupils will exchange emails, video diaries and podcasts to share experiences, ideas and to learn more about the different culture and lifestyle.
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