Prime Minister Harper has signed an understanding said to be worth as much as two billion dollars as a means of facilitating trade between China and Canada. He has also talked hockey and it seems possible at least that the NHL will play a game or two in China as early as next fall. Early today (Saturday, November 8, 2014) it was announced that a currency hub, or clearing bank, would be created by the two countries. It would speed the currency conversions necessary between the Chinese yuan and the Canadian dollar when companies wanted to do business. The creation of such a specialized bank is said to be a first in North America. Many say it will lead to a large increase in business between the countries. And Saturday night it was also time to talk hockey in the Middle Kingdom as Harper spoke about the the NHL’s interest in accepting a Chinese offer to “establish business relations.” TSN is reporting that there may be NHL games played in China as early as next year It noted that four members of the management of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment have flown to Beijing for talks. The prime minister is quoted as saying: “I must say in passing, how delighted I am to learn that our great Canadian game, hockey, now has a following here in China.” Speaking at a business meeting he said, “I’m told you even have NHL games on your television. “I know you’re also bidding for the 2022 Winter Games. So we’ll watch how that goes, and we’ll see you on the ice!”
