5/30/2008
CHARLESTON, W. Va. — A delegation from China’s coal-rich Shanxi province is coming to Charleston to talk to West Virginia businesses on Monday, June 2.
The delegation will meet with executives of 18 West Virginia mining equipment manufacturers in roundtable discussions at the Embassy Suites. Topics are expected to include opportunities in cooperative efforts, miners’ safety initiatives and clean coal technology. The session will conclude with a luncheon hosted by Gov. Joe Manchin at the governor’s mansion.
The Chinese delegation includes 10 business and government officials from Shanxi province and two representatives from the Chinese embassy in Washington. The Chinese delegation is led by Hu Suping, vice governor of Shanxi province, where one-third of China’s coal is produced.
“This visit is part of an ongoing series designed to develop our relationships and identify business opportunities between our two major energy-producing and exporting regions,” said Gov. Joe Manchin.
The visit is a result of the trade mission to China led by Gov. Manchin in November 2007. The governor has previously received delegations from Shanxi province in May 2006 and June 2007.
“China is West Virginia’s fourth-largest export market,” said Kelley Goes, secretary of the West Virginia Department of Commerce. "Our sales to China were up 36 percent in 2007. We value our working relationship with China and the opportunities to expand our relationships there.”
Shanxi officials will also make a video presentation to promote a major mining exhibition to be held in September 2008 in Taiyuan, the capital of Shanxi province. The China International Coal and Energy New Industry Expo will offer West Virginia companies the opportunity to display their equipment to potential buyers.
Contact Information
Catherine Zacchi
(304) 558-2003 x 340