Nelson Branch were delighted to host the new Christchurch Consul General Madam He Ying during her first visit to Nelson after taking up her position in March. During the meeting with the Nelson Branch Executive and Life Members the Consul General said China appreciates ongoing friendly relations between NZ and China in the spirit of Rewi Alley.
China “never forgets old friends”. She said that Chinese government policy is starting to open up again to allow visits from Foreigners. Visas are now being issued for work, business, students and family visits. Time in quarantine on arrival in China has reduced to 7 days plus 3 in home isolation. This is good news for our branch who are keen to resume valued sister city visits and youth exchanges. The Consul General shared our enthusiasm for creating friendship and mutual understanding through these personal relationships.
We were delighted to hear about the expected return of Mandarin Language Assistants however it is not yet clear when one will be allocated to Nelson. As an added bonus, the Consul General has offered to send an Erhu player from Christchurch to participate in our China week programme in October.
