Working Group News
Introduction from Pascal Hermandesse
Dear members,
The harrowing consequences of the 12th May earthquake will have a deep and lasting effect on Sichuan and its community, and my thoughts go out to all the families affected by the tragedy.
Economic implications of Sichuan earthquake
The 7.9 magnitude earthquake in Sichuan province on May 12 wreaked a devastating toll. More than 69,000 are confirmed dead with the figure expected to top 80,000 by the time rescue workers complete their grisly clean-up.
Read moreQuake adds to tourist industry trouble
Of the two industries most affected by the May 12 quake ? insurance and tourism ? it's the damage to the travel business that's a uniquely Sichuan problem. The province is the only one in China where tourism revenue exceeds 8 percent of its GDP, and last year the industry generated more than 121 billion RMB (US$17.4 billion).
Read moreReport from the disaster zone: Lafarge hit by quake
French building material maker Lafarge, which operates cement factories in Dujiangyan and Mianyang, was one of the EUCCC members nearest the earthquake's epicenter. Chengdu Voice spoke to communications VP for Lafarge China, Terry Qiao, to find out how the company, which came to Sichuan in 1999, is dealing with the disaster.
Read moreEyewitness accounts
After the earthquake everyone had a story to tell. Where were you? What happened? Were you frightened? We spoke to three of the Chengdu chapter's board members to ask them theirs.
Read moreWest of China Trade Fair postponed
The West China Trade Fair, due to be held on 25th May, will now take place in October, the Sichuan government has announced.
Read moreEurope Day dinner
9th May 2008
Europe Day dinner
List of participants and review of the event are available.
European Paralympic Committee Reception and Events
In order to promote and foster the European Paralympic Movement, the European Paralympic Committee (EPC) will organise special hospitality events during the Paralympic Games (Sep. 06.-17.2008), including a top-class European reception and lounge.
Vice premier hails new strategy on IPR protection
China's new strategy to tackle Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) issues will improve IPR protection in the country and attract greater intellectual resources from aboard, Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan has said in an article.
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