China celebrates 70th anniversary in Scotland

As the name list of city-to-city partnership is getting longer, more and more Chinese people are choosing to see and experience the Scottish culture, people and scenery by visiting Scotland.

Last year alone, more than 200,000 Chinese tourists visited Scotland, a 100 percent increase of the number five years ago, making Scotland one of Chinese tourists favorite long-haul travel destination.

People-to-People connections have witnessed rapid development too, according to Ben Macpherson, minister for Europe, migration and international development of the Scottish government. Chinese business flourished across Scotland while "the (Chinese) community continues to grow, and contribute to the well-being of our nation," he said at the reception.

The increase interactions at grassroots level also led to an increasing number of Chinese performance troupes coming to join the Edinburgh International Festival every year, bringing Chinese arts and talents to Scottish and international audiences.

Meanwhile, premium Scottish performing groups such as Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Scottish Ballet, Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and City of Glasgow Chorus are among those art troupes that have performed in China.