Pilbara town looks at Chinese sister city

Chinese culture is set to become an integral part of education at the Shire of Roebourne if it is successful in establishing sister city relationships with two Chinese cities.

Shire chief executive Chris Adams and staff members will travel to port cities Rizhao and Dalian on the north-east coast of China for a "scoping mission" this month.

Mr Adams said the purpose of establishing cultural relationships with the cities was to support international trade, particularly the shipment of iron ore which already takes place.

"Having a direct line of communication with these cities will assist us in working together to find other trade and investment opportunities," he said.

Karratha and Districts Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive John Lally said fostering cultural ties with China was essential for economic growth in the Pilbara.

"It's not a short-term thing, we're going to be dealing with China for many decades," he said.

"So we should be having cultural, as well as business ties. "You don't just go in and do business with Chinese people, you build friendly relationships first.

"That's how they do business, so we have to learn to do it that way."

Mr Lally said Chinese investment would grow smaller businesses and provide employment.

"I know companies here are looking for foreign investors, not to take them over, but to invest in them so they can expand their business in the maritime, and mining and construction areas," he said. "The Australian businesses know how to do business in Australia and the Chinese provide the money and some expertise. The employment is all Australian."

As well as sharing a port industry, Mr Adams said Rizhao and Dalian had similar profiles to the Shire.

"We share a fast level of growth as well as aspirations for sustainability and environmental conservation, particularly in our coastal ecosystems," he said.

Mr Adams said the sister city relationship would involve cultural and educational exchanges and establishing business links between the cities.

"We envisage our schools getting involved and making connections with their Chinese counterparts and there are also opportunities for art and culture to be shared," he said.

Mr Lally said Chinese culture education would also be important for future generations.

"The idea is to start educational trips so Chinese people understand the Pilbara and we understand the Chinese point of view as well," he said.

"I've got grandchildren up here and in future years they will be dealing with China."