"When we go to Shenzhen, if we say these are the kinds of businesses we are bringing, and these are the businesses they would like to meet, they arrange that for us, and that means real value. The business that gets done is a lot more than if we had to find our way around the city.

"We are also happy with the reciprocal arrangement. We have made space in our offices and host any businesses that want to come and stay for a while, making sure they have a worthwhile visit."

The exchanges have been supported by the city council, McAreavey says. "It is not just the business community, but also the city that wants to build that relationship, seize the value of the relationship with Shenzhen and with China."

As part of this relationship, it has been customary for the lord provost of Edinburgh to travel to Shenzhen once during each term of office.

When Aldridge accompanied the trade delegation to Shenzhen last year, he met Shenzhen Mayor Qin Weizhong, attended the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair, and visited members of the Shenzhen Vitalization Symphony Development Foundation.

Qin says: "Shenzhen is a brand-new city created by the Communist Party of China and the Chinese people as part of reform and opening-up, and it is a brilliant interpretation of socialism with Chinese characteristics on a blank sheet of paper." Qin emphasizes the cities' shared traits, including dynamism, vibrancy and innovation on the international stage.