CHINA– Shandong officials led by Gov. Jiang Da Ming warmly welcomed the delegation of Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee R. Marcos during their arrival here for a 5-day visit in the said province.
The visit was aimed at strengthening Ilocos Norte’s partnership and cooperation with Shandong to boost agriculture, education and tourism industry . Shandong is one of the richest provinces in China noted for large business enterprises that import products of well-known brand names.
“The mutual pact between Shandong and Ilocos Norte should not only be limited to mere sisterhood but it shall spur economic growth that will benefit both provinces” said Governor Jiang in a conference held during the welcome rites for the delegation of Governor Marcos in Shandong
Report said Shandong officials and business investors are expected to visit Ilocos Norte next year.
It may be recalled that Ilocos Norte and Shandong had initially forged the sisterhood ties during the administration of then governor now Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos in 2002.
Meanwhile, both Ilocos Norte and Shandong provinces also vowed to renovate the Currimao Seaport and Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte, Philippines.
Shandong Commerce Department Deputy Director Yan Zhaowan said the Chinese government and its business sector are willing to extend a financial counterpart to help modernize the Ilocos Norte seaport and airport.
On the other hand, Provincial Board Member Mariano Marcos II said the ports shall be modernized to meet international standards in their operations noting that the two are vital entry points for the province’s tourism and economic-related activities.(Florante Nicolas, PGIN-Communications and Media Office)
