I discuss trade and investment as a matter of course during my bilateral meetings with members of the Chinese leadership, including recent meetings with Premier Wen in September 2006 and State Councillor Tang in October.
Senior members of the Chinese Government have made clear that the Task Force continues to enjoy a very high status in China. This has created a favourable context for the promotion of UK business and other interests.
Task Force recommendations have resulted in the Joint Economic and Trade Commission being revamped, and the establishment of programmes in five key trade areas.
These programmes are making excellent progress in the fields of:
Information and Communications Technology;
Water;
Financial Services;
Energy; and
Health.
Following a review last year, the Task Force is now focusing on sustainability issues, including climate change, and how our strong trade and investment links with the Chinese could promote the development of sustainable cities.