A delegation of government, cultural and business leaders from Hangzhou, China arrived in Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, U.S. Mayor Ballard extended an invitation to the Hangzhou delegation following his 2008 economic development trip to the city.

"Positioning our city as a strong global competitor is key to ensuring our success for decades to come," said Mayor Ballard. "Our strong relationship with China is providing ample opportunity for economic and cultural exchanges -- helping Indianapolis establish a stronger global presence."

Last year, Ningbo manufacturer Goodtime Science & Technology Co. Ltd. located their U.S. distribution center in Indianapolis. The company manufactures and distributes environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient rubber, plastic, and metal items and molds for major auto makers including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, and Honda. The company considered locations in Michigan, Kentucky and Missouri but ultimately chose Indianapolis because of its superior market reach, ease of doing business and quality of life.

"Establishing relationships with community and business leaders in Hangzhou and our other sister cities is crucial to our international economic development efforts, which is why we have taken the opportunity to visit Hangzhou twice in the past year. We are pleased to now take our turn in welcoming their delegation and are thrilled they will have the opportunity to experience firsthand all that Indianapolis has to offer," said Scott Miller, CEO, Indianapolis Economic Development, Inc. (IEDI).

While in Indianapolis, the Hangzhou delegation also met with executives with IEDI as well as toured several local attractions including the Indianapolis Museum of Art and Conseco Fieldhouse.

"Indianapolis has so much to offer and we are very excited to be able to share with the Hangzhou delegation many of our most famed cultural attractions," said Carolin Requiz Smith, Director of the Mayor's Office of International and Cultural Affairs. "Hangzhou has been an excellent partner for Indianapolis, and we are happy to have this opportunity to extend some Hoosier hospitality."

Mayor of Hangzhou, Mr. Caiqi and Mayor of Indianapolis, Mr. Ballard signed agreement on 2008 Dec.5th making Hangzhou the first sister city in mainland China for Indianapolis.

Source: Inside Indiana Business