Football-led deal with Chinese city could bring in millions

DELEGATES from Sheffield have travelled to Chengdu, in China, to sign a "sister agreement" between the two cities – a deal that could potentially bring millions of pounds of investment to South Yorkshire.
By The Newsroom
Published 26th Mar 2010, 10:16 BST
Updated 26th Mar 2010, 10:16 BST

One of the largest cities in China, Chengdu is capital of the Sichuan province and the economic centre of the south west of the country.

This economic relationship between the two cities follows Sheffield United's move into Chinese football through its acquisition of the Chengdu Blades.

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Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe and chief executive Trevor Birch are part of the 15-strong delegation, which also includes businessmen, Sheffield Council's cabinet member for economy Colin Ross, a council officer and a representative from regeneration agency Creative Sheffield.

Mr McCabe said: "Chengdu and China provide exciting platforms for Sheffield United, the city of Sheffield and its economy.

"I am confident other businesses and organisations from the Sheffield region will soon start to embrace the two-way opportunities provided by the signing of the sister city agreement."

Highlights of the trip have included visits to the Chengdu Blades football academy and Chengdu Chamber of Commerce, the signing of a "memorandum of understanding" with Chengdu University and the planting of a "friendship tree" with an official from Chengdu People's Congress.

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Sheffield Council leader Paul Scriven said: "The impact for Sheffield is potentially millions of pounds of benefits to the local economy.

"I'm very pleased such an important city as Chengdu wants to cement its relationship with Sheffield."

Related topics:SheffieldSheffield UnitedSouth Yorkshire