Tourism New South Wales signs an agreement with China Unionpay in Guangzhou on November 19 for the use of debit cards or credit cards bearing the logo of China Unionpay in New South Wales.

GUANGZHOU: The state of New South Wales in Australia will take part in the Guangdong International Travel and Culture Festival, which opens tonight.

In order to promote the state's tourism resources, New South Wales Premier Morris Lemma undertook a two-day visit to Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, on November 19 and 20.

He was accompanied by leading business and research representatives of his state, as well as Tourism New South Wales officials. The aim of the mission was to open up new cooperation opportunities between Guangdong and New South Wales, said Lemma.

Sydney, the New South Wales capital city, is Australia's leading business, financial and tourism center with much to offer for Chinese people interested in business or travel in the island country.

"New South Wales has a strong and diverse economy and is the leading state in Australia.

"It is well known as a producer of high-quality coal, but also has strengths in agriculture, creative industries, financial services, infrastructure and construction, logistics and transaction services, education and tourism.

"We welcome Chinese investment in New South Wales and visitors to our state," Lemma said.

To attract more Chinese visitors to the state and provide more convenient consumption options for them, Tourism New South Wales signed an agreement with China Unionpay in Guangzhou on November 19, in the presence of Premier Lemma.

From now on, Chinese visitors holding debit cards or credit cards bearing the logo of China Unionpay can consume in the state by easily swiping their cards or withdraw money from any ATM machine in the state.

"The new service will not only provide convenience for Chinese visitors, but also greatly boost the economic development of New South Wales and deepen the cooperation between China and Australia," Lemma said.

New South Wales has a slew of activities lined up for the travel and culture festival, aimed at boosting tourism.

It will also participate in the float parade. A float with decorations featuring the state's tourism attractions, such as the Sydney Opera House, will be displayed during the opening ceremony tonight.

Lemma thanked the Guangdong provincial government for inviting him to visit the province just before the travel and culture festival.

"Guangdong and New South Wales have had sisterly relations for 28 years and this gives us a solid foundation on which to build partnerships," he added.

By Liang Qiwen(China Daily)