BSI signs agreement with Standardization Administration of China

BSI and SAC to continue collaborating on future standards development
Beijing, China – 21st April 2004 – A delegation from British Standards including Director Mike Low is on an official trip to Beijing to sign a co-operation Agreement with Li Zhonghai, Administrator of the Standardization Administration of the PRC (SAC) today. The agreement further enhances the already close working relationship enjoyed by the two organizations and paves the way for further collaboration in standardization in China.

"The co-operation agreement marks an important milestone in the working relationship between BSI and SAC. BSI is committed to help promote best business practice in China and this agreement will allow us to contribute to Standards development here. " said Mike Low.

Mr. Li Zhonghai commented "This agreement will facilitate standards development that will improve efficiency, facilitate trade and stimulate innovation. We are delighted to be BSI’s partner in this agreement and are confident that the agreement with BSI will help China to exchange and transfer knowledge as our country continues its rapid transformation and embraces WTO principles.

The co-operation stems from a number of visits between BSI and SAC, including Sir David John, Chairman of BSI. In October last year, senior executives from BSI discussed Standards developments with SAC. This was then followed by a visit by Wang Zhongmin and his staff to BSI in London for further discussions with Mike Low and his staff in London. In addition, BSI has received Chinese delegations to its London headquarters to understand the formation, creation and application of standards in the UK/Europe.

BSI and SAC are currently working together on the Council of the International Organization for Standardization  (ISO) and in the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) to ensure the effectiveness of these organizations and that they are fully open to the influences of different national backgrounds.

-ENDS-

For more information please contact:

Wilma Tulloch on +44 (0)20 8996 6330 OR
Marc Edney on +44 (0)20 8996 6330