NZ capital signs economic accord with Zhejiang Province

The biggest Chinese delegation ever to visit the New Zealand capital Thursday signed a strategic economic partnership agreement with the four mayors of the Wellington region.

The 180-strong trade mission from southeast China's Zhejiang Province, led by Governor Xia Baolong, would also sign a Wellington Trade and Business Cooperation Projects agreement.

Zhejiang company representatives were also expected to sign deals with New Zealand companies worth millions of dollars, said a statement from Wellington City Council.

The delegation included representatives from the Zhejiang Radio and Television Group, who would produce a documentary about Wellington to be broadcast in 56 countries, said the statement.

"With a GDP of over 495 billion U.S. dollars, Zhejiang is one of the most prosperous provinces in China, and it is looking to engage with New Zealand through trade and investment," said Wellington City Mayor Celia Wade-Brown.

"Wellington is a valuable region to partner because it includes the capital city and is home to our government and a diverse range of businesses. We offer creative and cultural opportunities in health, education, science and clean-tech partnerships," Wade- Brown said in the statement.

"The Strategic Economic Partnership: Memorandum of Cooperation aims to increase opportunities for trade, study and mutual understanding of our cities. It will also increase exchanges between the regions."

The Zhejiang delegation followed on from Wade-Brown's visit to China earlier this year.