Neal raises a sign that reads "Meet Xiamen" on Zhongshan Road. [Photo/CIFIT]

The United Kingdom, guest country of honor at the 25th China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT), recently welcomed a delegation led by Lewis Neal, UK Trade Commissioner for China, to Xiamen.

As the guest country of honor, the UK will set up a 408-square-meter exhibition pavilion, highlighting five key sectors: energy, professional services, healthcare, cultural creativity, and high-tech industries, along with hosting a series of economic and trade events.

Lin Zhicheng, vice mayor of Xiamen, met with the delegation, and both sides exchanged views on deepening economic and trade cooperation. 

He expressed hope that institutions from both China and the UK participating in this year's CIFIT would engage in in-depth and practical discussions to further elevate bilateral cooperation across various fields.

Neal spoke highly of Xiamen's economic vitality, describing the city as a "gateway to opportunities". He emphasized that the UK will leverage the CIFIT platform to deepen two-way investment cooperation with China in sectors like new energy and biopharmaceuticals. 

During the visit, Neal and his delegation toured several Xiamen-based enterprises including Hithium Energy Storage, ITG Group, and Anta Sports, conducting on-site inspections of their production and operations. 

From the historical charm of Gulangyu Island to the century-old elegance of Zhongshan Road, from traditional Minnan cuisine to modern urban life, the delegates immersed themselves in the city's diverse culture and unique appeal, experiencing Xiamen's openness, innovation, and humanistic warmth.

Neal remarked, "This journey has been truly fantastic. As the guest country of honor, we would like to sincerely invite global partners to join us at CIFIT." He penned the words "Meet in Xiamen, Meet in CIFIT" on a postcard and mailed it from the host city of the fair.

The delegation inspects enterprises in Xiamen. [Photo/CIFIT]