Gov. Newsom and California Delegation Fortifies Economic and Environmental Ties in China
Over the past few weeks, a series of delegations to China spearheaded by Gov. Newsom and the California business community led by the Bay Area Council reinforced the state’s commitments towards subnational collaboration for economic and environmental progress. A special ceremony this week, the California Cooperation Forum at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, underscored this international partnership and showcased California’s proactive approach to climate issues and its integral role in global trade and innovation.
The California Cooperation Forum emphasized fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration between California and China. Notable California leaders, including former State Treasurer John Chiang, Alameda County Supervisors Keith Carson and David Haubert, and mayors of cities across the state joined forces with Chinese counterparts to fortify relationships and explore new avenues for cooperation, especially in areas of climate change and green technology. “Our presence in China reflects California’s commitment to sustainable and economic solutions on the world stage,” said Jennifer Zou, who leads the Council’s China operations, said in remarks during the ceremony.
These visits to China, with events such as the opening ceremony attended by U.S. Consul General Scott Walker, signify a strategic step towards deepening the bond between California and China, with particular emphasis on mutual benefits in trade, investment, and environmental stewardship. The delegation’s trade mission focused on action, with an MOU between Council member MEBO Group and Safeway Albertson’s signed for expansion in the Chinese market. Additional channels for collaboration were spearheaded by Bay Area Council Economic Institute Executive Director Jeff Bellisario, who demonstrated the Bay Area’s ability to the world’s innovation and trade ecosystems. Combined with the Governor’s trailblazing efforts to shift the tone of US-China relations, the foundations have been set for a more positive outlook between the two regions at the upcoming APEC summit in San Francisco. For more information, please contact Senior Director of Global Business Development Alex Foard.
