Chinese Delegation to Meet With Economic Group

October 3, 2012

News Release

Lafayette, Ind. -- Greater Lafayette Commerce is hosting a delegation of 34 Chinese executives on Thursday, October 4. The welcoming program at the Lafayette Country Club will include remarks by Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski, West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis and Tippecanoe County Commissioner Tom Murtaugh, who will give an overview of the community and business opportunities here.

Those attending are enrolled in an executive development program at the South China University of Technology, which includes a five-day stay at Purdue University, occurring this week.

“Greater Lafayette is indeed the focus of great interest by the international community, and particularly people in China,” said Jody Hamilton, economic development director at Greater Lafayette Commerce.

“This is an opportunity for us to showcase our community, strong manufacturing base and commitment to developing new global relationships,” she said. “What’s especially exciting is that these visiting executives represent virtually every sector—manufacturing, electronics, utilities, investment and banking, engineering, construction, science, telecommunications and education. We hope to plant seeds for future developments here in Lafayette.”

The group’s community day also includes an inside tour of Kirby Risk Service Center and a driving tour of numerous local industries, including the under-construction Nanshan America plant in Park 350.

“Learning about our community and Indiana is an important element of their stay and study here,” said Liping Cai, director of the Purdue University China Center in the Office of International Programs. The center is hosting the Purdue activities, along with the Center for International Business Education and Research, Krannert School of Management, and the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, College of Health and Human Sciences.

Besides possible future business ties, the visitors develop an interest in Purdue, Cai said. “Those who participate in these programs feel our friendliness and hospitality and often send their children to Purdue.”

About Greater Lafayette Commerce

Headquartered at 337 Columbia St. in Lafayette, Greater Lafayette Commerce (www.greaterlafayettecommerce.com), whose roots go back more than 85 years, is a nonprofit membership organization supported by local businesses, industries and governments. Its mission is to advance economic and community prosperity for a superior quality of life.

Source: Greater Lafayette Commerce