Delegation from China aiming to build links

The Lord Mayor of York, Coun David Horton, hosted the delegation of presidents and vice presidents at historic Mansion House, after it arrived in the city as part of a week-long study tour.

There are currently nearly 1,000 Chinese students at York University, which make up 75 per cent of its total number of overseas students and is seen as a vital link for providing funding for the university and boosting the city’s reputation abroad.

Coun Horton said: “I was delighted to be able to support the visit.

“York’s economic, academic and cultural links with China have grown in recent years and it was good to be able to meet some of those who have played a part in the development of our international relationship.”

Kersten England, chief executive of York Council, said: “York is looking to build more and stronger bridges to the wider global economy in the future and we are working with partners across the city to strategically internationalise it.

“From improving performance of existing York businesses in international trade, to the attraction of more diverse international students, to enhanced investment in York by foreign owned companies - the city is going global.

“I’m pleased we were able to further strengthen the city’s many existing links with China through hosting this event.”

York University used to be the number one destination for international students from America, attracted to study there due to its rich heritage and impressive reputation.

But in recent years, they have been overtaken by the number of students arriving from China as the new superpower’s economy continues to boom and it looks further out to improve links to the west.