Beijng training institute to open branch in The Hague

Chinese mayors academy goes Dutch

BEING - Chinese authorities want to set up an outlet in The Netherlands for the National Academy for Mayors of China. They are interested in working together with existing advisory and academic institutes in The Hague in the area of public administration.

The Hague’s Deputy Mayor Henk Kool (who holds Social Affairs, Employment and Economy file) recently signed an agreement during his visit to China to set up the academy.

Kool views the opening of an office of this prestigious academy in his city as an honour for The Hague, a further strengthening of the ties between The Hague and China. Many institutions in The Hague could benefit from this move, asserts Kool.

The National Academy for Mayors of China has enjoyed a high profile at home for many years. The academy provides newly appointed as well as young mayors with training and education. Since many Chinese cities are growing rapidly, the need is felt for extra support for city administrators.

A suitable location for the new academy in The Hague still needs to be found. Chinese officials hope to make use of The Hague’s expertise in public administration.

Late 2011, a delegation of 25 Chinese mayors from the academy paid a visit to The Hague and other Dutch cities. The visit was the first move towards the recently signed agreement.