The honour was conferred on Mr David Valentine, head of economic development, by Mr Sun Yongchun, Party Secretary and Chairman of Yantai Congress, who said the honorary citizenship was given in recognition of David's achievements during the past ten years in developing trade, tourism and educational links between Yantai Municipality and Angus. Only one other European has received this honour to date.

Speaking following the China Britain Business Council's dinner last Thursday, the council's economic development spokesman Councillor David May said the honour was well deserved.

"For over a decade David been an excellent ambassador for Angus in the work he had done to nurture business links with China.

"As a result Angus Council has earned an enviable reputation as Scotland's leading local authority in China with many local businesses now reaping tremendous benefits.

"Some have established a base in China while others are procuring supplies from there which strengthens their competitive edge within European markets and this has safeguarded and created jobs locally."

The Scottish Government's Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth John Swinney added his congratulations, saying: "David Valentine has managed to undertake an enormous task in developing these economic and cultural links between Angus and Yantai.

"It is important for Scotland to move forward economically through links with other countries. This is a tribute to his hard work over the years on behalf of Angus Council."

Commenting on the award David Valentine said: "Being given honorary citizenship of Yantai is more than just a tremendous honour, it is a real tribute to the hard work and determination of a great number of people not just here but also in China who have worked so hard to create a dividend from the friendship and co-operation agreement between Angus and Yantai.

"China is possibly the fastest growing economy in the world and there is a huge demand for what Scottish companies have to offer in the fields of trade and tourism.

"Over the last ten years we have built lasting relationships between Angus and Yantai, based on friendship and trust which create a firm foundation for future growth.

"I am very proud that Angus Council now has an excellent reputation in this field and is still at the forefront of the drive to address the opportunities that are available to businesses in China".

One Angus company that is now building on the county's relationship with China is textile manufacturer J. & D. Wilkie Limited of Kirriemuir.

Managing director Bob Low praised the work done by Angus Council in establishing a network of contacts in China.

"We have found that within China there is a significant interaction between companies and the local government.

"Networking is important in all countries but in China it has special significance. The visit earlier this year from Angus Council to Jiaxing helped raise the Wilkie profile with the local government and this all helps build our networks and credibility within the Jiaxing area," said Mr Low.

"China production has created a new opportunity for our weaving business. We have a rapidly growing domestic market opening up in China and have also created a globally competitive production centre.

"We feel this should help position Wilkie's for further business growth in the future."

The Scottish Parliamentary Cross Party Group on China is working to build on established links as well as create new ones to establish greater co-operation economically, culturally and educationally between Scotland and China.

The group's convener Tom McCabe MSP welcomed Mr Valentine's honorary citizenship of Yantai, saying: "David has long been committed to working with China, for the benefit of Angus.

"His hard work has been rewarded by the success he and Angus Council have achieved through their links, and now this great honour is further testament to David and the many people whose dedication and perseverance has lead to Angus Council leading the way for Scottish local authorities in China."