Wow, it’s 11:45-what a day! We attended the Cummins Supplier Conference, lunch and had networking time today at the hotel. We then departed for the Zhejiang Chamber of Commerce and met from 3-5 learning about their organization, showcased Indiana, and discussed many things including incubators. We went immediately to the Hoosier Club of Shanghai Reception. It was amazing to see so many people that live in China that have lived in our state. I had the chance to meet with former students of IU, Purdue, and Ball State, employees of companies that lived in Indiana for two or three years, Magna-Shanghai employees (yes the same company that has a plant in Muncie) and the Director and his wife of China Operations for Ball State University. I also had the pleasure of meeting a former Anderson resident who grew up next door to our Park Superintendent Doug Zook. It was a great networking opportunity! It truly is a small world!
I just returned from dinner with Mayors Costas, Seybold, Hosier, and our hosts. We ate at a Tawainese restaurant and it was fabulous. Once you get past the fish’s head and tail on the plate one can enjoy the opportunity to share the economic development incentives East Central Indiana has to offer and enjoy the fellowship with fellow mayors.
In 2008 Shanghai’s population exceeded 210 million and accounted for approximately 15% of China’s total population. Also, per capita GDP was almost $9,039 compared to $3,260 nationwide. The development is unbelievable. I have never seen so many high rises. Shanghai is working diligently on its infrastructure in part because they are hosting the World Expo next year.
Time to call it a day!