If the intensive contacts of recent years are anything to go by, this symposium will pull in top-ranking Chinese government officials/politicians and captains of industry running export-oriented Chinese companies. Needless to say, their Dutch counterparts will also be very much in evidence.

Traditionally, Amsterdamhas always created an attractive business climate for foreign companies, attracting in particular those corporations keen to use Greater Amsterdam as the Smart Gateway to Europe. Exceptionally, Amsterdam is home to companies offering first-rate services; has world-class logistics facilities for companies setting up shop here; boasts excellent transport links by short-sea, inland waterway, rail, road and air  with the huge European hinterland and has a pro-business local government going that extra mile to support enterprise.

On the eve of the symposium, the distinguished Chinese guests including leading politicians and businessmen will be getting the red-carpet treatment. The City Executive will warmly welcome them at a reception in the official residence of Mayor Job Cohen.

In recent years, Chinese-Amsterdam relations have been going from strength to strength. The Portof Amsterdamand the city of Amsterdam, for example, are now operating one office in Shanghaiwith a five-member staff. Likewise, from October 20 through 27, astrong trade and official delegation led by Mayor Job Cohen will visit China.

The number of people from abroad and the Netherlandshaving registered for the event is large. Clearly, the symposium will give a strong boost to relations between Amsterdamand China. It is still possible to enroll for the symposium at amports@amports.nl.

The symposium will take place at the Muziekgebouw on the IJ River from 8.30 a.m. Lodewijk Asscher, Alderman for Economic and Port Affairs, will round off proceedings at 5:15 p.m. with a brief speech.

Ab van der Neut, Communication Department of the Port of Amsterdam

Tel: +31 (0)20 5234875 or +31 (0)6 51171291