Former Gov. Mitch Daniels' Newsroom

Contact: Jane Jankowski
Phone: 317/232-1622
Email: jjankowski@gov.in.gov
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For Immediate Release: Aug 1, 2005
Governor Daniels promotes Indiana for Taiwanese investment and exports
Taipei, Taiwan (August 1, 2005) – Governor Mitch Daniels, along with the largest delegation of Hoosier business, community, and corporate leaders in Indiana history, began a seven-day Asian Economic Development Mission in Taipei, Taiwan on Monday

Taipei, Taiwan (August 1, 2005) – Governor Mitch Daniels, along with the largest delegation of Hoosier business, community, and corporate leaders in Indiana history, began a seven-day Asian Economic Development Mission in Taipei, Taiwan on Monday.

The governor met with President Chen Shui-Bian and spoke to a luncheon hosted by Foreign Minister and Purdue University alumnus Tan Sun Chen.

“I believe our meetings in Taipei reestablish strong ties in the region and lay the foundation for growth,” said Governor Daniels. I was very encouraged by the positive response of our hosts to Indiana’s current business climate and the prospect of greater opportunities for Hoosiers in the future.”

President Chen thanked Governor Daniels for his leadership of the delegation and willingness to personally travel to Taiwan.

“We are very honored this is the first time you’ve visited a foreign country since your inauguration in January,” said the Taiwanese President.

During an evening ceremony, Governor Daniels and Provincial Governor Kwang-Hua Lin signed a reaffirmation of the sister-state relationship between Indiana and Taiwan. A reception honoring the longstanding friendship between the two governments followed.

Earlier Monday, Governor Daniels, Secretary of Commerce Pat Miller and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation hosted a business summit for Taiwanese business leaders. During the summit, Indiana officials and economic leaders highlighted the state’s favorable business climate, expanding agricultural sector, central location, and strong workforce.

Indiana is poised for an economic rebirth,” said Secretary Miller. Through the extensive work of members of the General Assembly, Indiana stands ready to join with our Taiwanese business friends in a productive long-term partnership.

On August 2, the delegation will depart Taiwan for Japan.

Fast Facts about Indiana and Taiwan:

Indiana exports to Taiwan total over $99 million annually.

In 1979, Indiana became the first state to forge a sister-state relationship with Taiwan.

In 1987, Indiana became the first state to open an office in Taiwan

Several Indiana companies have significant relationships with Taiwan including: Rolls-Royce (Allison Engine), Allison Transmission, Hill-Rom, AM General, Cummins Engine, and Eli Lilly.

Photos from Monday’s activities can be viewed at: http://www.in.gov/gov/media/index.html

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