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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