Policy Research Media Morhamburn

The first meeting of the Cross Party Group on China after the long summer recess took the form of a reception rather than the more conventional series of presentations by invited speakers.

Committee Convener, Labour MSP Tom McCabe, was in ebullient form as he circulated among the assembled guests and representatives from the Chinese consulate. Smiles of recognition were offered in the direction of acquaintances while words of welcome were directed to first-time attendees.

After allowing time for latecomers, Mr McCabe took the floor to offer a few words of welcome before introducing Chinese Consul General Lipei Li who, after outlining the importance of growing Sino-Scottish trade and education links, also referred to the esteem in which Scotland’s ploughman poet, Robert Burns, is held in China. There then followed a short presentation by Chief Executive of engineering firm Howden Global, Bob Cleland, who provided an informal overview of Howden’s Chinese operation – Howden Hua.

Last night’s reception illustrated fully that the importance of Holyrood’s CPGs cannot be underestimated. Not only do they bring together MSPs, interested stakeholders and members of the public, they also can and do effect change – as well as show how (and perhaps uniquely) approachable Scotland’s lawmakers can be – and indeed are. They also offer invaluable networking opportunities.

To say that networking in business is important ranks high among obvious understatements. But at a time when Scotland is asserting its identity and testing the boundaries of its international mercantile prowess like never before – especially in immense markets like China (and, it must be added, India) – the CPG China really does play a vital role.

Scotland’s businessmen and women require networking and communication channels that will allow them to remain relevant as well as competitive in the Orient. Chatting with some of the guests at the CPG China – most all of whom it would appear to have interests or are pursuing interests in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou – and even Urumqi in far western Xinjiang province – it was easy to see how valued and central a role institutions such as the CPG can – and indeed do play.

The CPG China allows Scottish-based players in that vast Far Eastern economic powerhouse the opportunity to offer up business tips and ideas, as well as share cultural insights and observations that only true Sinophiles possess. And anything that provides Scots entrepreneurs with the hint of a competitive edge, joined-up tips and inspiration – should only be encouraged.