On May 3, City of Fremont completed its trade mission to China. The official delegation representing the city on the eight-day trade mission included Fremont City Councilman Bob Wieckowski; Deputy City Manager Melissa Dile; Economic Development Coordinator Angela Tsui; Economic Development Advisory Commission members Teresa Cox, Sheena Chang and Nancy Lee; Fremont Planning Commission member Sue Chan; and Ohlone Board of Trustees President Garrett Yee.

The delegation met with government officials, including the district and deputy governors of Luwan Shanghai, the party secretary of Suzhou, and the mayor of Wujiang City. In addition, the group included business executives from Fremont-based companies such as AsteelFlash, Lam Research, BizLink Technology and Wellex.

"This is a very exciting opportunity for Fremont to learn how best to position itself as part of the global economy," Councilman Wieckowski said. "The growth in China is phenomenal and we should leverage Fremont's strengths to be a part of that growth."

The trade mission focused on the Shanghai area and included the neighboring cities of Suzhou, Wujiang and Kunshan.

As part of the itinerary, the delegation met with the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Foreign Commercial Service in Shanghai. The delegation learned of new opportunities and methods for promoting Fremont to the Chinese market.

As a conclusion to the trade mission schedule, the city held a reception for 33 people to thank existing Fremont businesses with facilities in the Shanghai area and other key individuals for their commitment to Fremont.

"We are following up with the initial foundation begun in 2002," Fremont City Manager Fred Diaz said. "It is important to maintain and nurture these relationships that we hope will translate into investment and economic benefit for the city of Fremont and Fremont businesses."

Next steps include the preparation of a formal report to Fremont City Council May 27 to summarize the trade mission.