Expanding Trade through Subnational Connections

The Bay Area Council continued its support for subnational dialogue by co-hosting the Yangtze River Delta-California Cooperation Forum with Yangpu District Government and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce for Machinery and Electronics (CCCME). The forum in this burgeoning tech district in Shanghai was part of the Council’s recent trade mission to China led by Assemblyman Phil Ting. Yangpu District Party Secretary Yueqi Li, Director Mayor Jiangang Xie, Vice Mayor Liang Zhao and over 300 representatives of companies and representatives with ties to both regions participated in the forum, with Yonghong Shi, Vice President of CCCME, delivering opening remarks. Bay Area Council Chief Operating Officer John Grubb and District Mayor Jiangang Xie talked about how both regions have evolved into thriving economic centers that benefit from subnational cooperation.

Mr. Erik Puknys, Partner, Finnegan Henderson Farabow Garrett & Dunner LLP presented a keynote on Global Technology Innovation and Cooperation. Ensuing panels comprised of Chinese representatives and trade mission delegates. Exhibitors in the Council’s California Pavilion at the China International Import Expo (CIIE), one of the world’s largest purchasing events, explored how connections could be fostered through the private and public sectors. Ideas such as building on existing sister city relationships and designing results-oriented friendship city ties were warmly welcomed from both sides. Assemblymember Ting gave closing remarks. The Council continues to build bridges through partnerships and events. To learn more about the Bay Area Council’s China work, please contact Chief of Global Business Development Del Christensen.

Watch video showcasing the Council’s California exhibit at CIIE>>