Fiji’s Counsellor to China, Neumi Leweni has taken up his appointment as the Consul-General to China’s financial hub and its largest city, Shanghai. Shanghai, with a population of more than 24 million, is also the world’s largest city by population, a global financial center and a transport hub with the world’s busiest container port.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola and Fiji’s Ambassador to China, HE Esala Teleni visited the new Consulate General office in Shanghai yesterday and were impressed with the setup of the new office.
Joining Consul-General Leweni is his deputy, Mukhtar Khan who will be responsible for the promotion of trade relations.
Consul-General Leweni has been working at Fiji’s embassy to China for over three years. He has gained significant experience in dealing with Chinese business people and led the establishment of several major investments from China to Fiji such as the multi-million dollar development in Raiwai and other investments such as mineral water projects in Fiji.
Consul-General Leweni has also led several wealthy business delegations to Fiji over the past three years and successfully encouraged them to invest in Fiji.
Shanghai, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, is a business city whereas Beijing is the administrative center. Consul-General Leweni said his focus in Shanghai will be developing trade and business relations, as well as exploring Shanghai’s high-value tourism market.
There are ongoing discussions on direct commercial flights from Shanghai to Nadi, as well Charter flights to capture niche high-end clientele.
The Consulate General will offer a range of services including promotion of Fiji Tourism in Shanghai, more business investments, education exchanges, cultural exchange programs and the usual consular services for Fijian citizens in Shanghai.
The new office will also deal with local government and non-governmental organisations on issues such as climate change and the environment.
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