Ambassador Ante Simonić visited Shanghai, met with Mayor Han Zheng

Mayor Zheng thanked Ambassador Simonić for the visit, adding that it shows the Croatian side’s interest in further strengthening the mutual cooperation. He informed him about the preparation for the EXPO 2010 in Shanghai. Ambassador Simonić pointed out that Croatia understands the scope and importance of the EXPO for the Chinese side.

Ambassador Simonić said it is in Croatian side’s interest to narrow down the cooperation areas with Shanghai, especially considering that in 2007 the city had a GDP of nearly $ 176 billion. Pointing out that several congruent priorities for the development of future relation had already been determined (such as tourism, culture, and sports), he reminded that the Croatian National Tourist Board had already recognized the potential of this origin market, and has for several years now been taking part in the Shanghai tourist fare.

Since the head of the Chinese Olympic Board intends for Shanghai to become one of world’s sports capitals, Ambassador Simonić said Croatia is willing to offer its expertise and experience in a series of sports activities.

Ambassador Simonić also relayed the invitation to Mayor Zheng to visit Croatia and attend the Conference on the Sustainable Development of Cities, set for April in Zagreb. It is also worth noting that the cities of Zagreb and Shanghai are friend cities and in 2010 will celebrate the 30th anniversary of this important relationship.