County Plays Host to Delegation From Xi’an, China

GOSHEN – Orange County Director of Economic Development Bill Fioravanti hosted a delegation from Xi’an, China’s Municipal Bureau of Commerce on Wednesday, October 16th.

The group, which consisted of approximately 20 people, also met with Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus, Deputy County Executive Harry Porr and County Clerk Annie Rabbitt.

“It was a pleasure to host what was an inquisitive, fun and kind group,” Neuhaus said. “They were eager to learn about myself and Orange County, and it was interesting to hear about their lives and culture in Xi’an. I hope they enjoyed their time in Orange County as much as I enjoyed meeting them.”

The Xi’an contingent visited the region to exchange ideas about tourism, economic development and learn more about the County’s Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ), spending about three hours with Fioravanti, before visiting the Government Center for a brief visit with Neuhaus. Fioravanti provided Li Qungang, Deputy Director of the Xi’an Municipal Bureau of Commerce, with a comprehensive report about Orange County Economic Development, and the FTZ, as well as Tourism.

He also facilitated a conference call with Angelique Tapia from Harriman-based flavor and fragrance manufacturer, Takasago. Tapia is Takasago’s Logistics Trade Analyst and coordinates FTZ activities for the company.

“It was wonderful to welcome this respected Chinese delegation to Orange County,” Fioravanti said. “Foreign Direct Investment is an important component in strengthening our local economy. We had an engaging dialogue with our guests who were very interested in learning about the impressive wave of economic activity that County Executive Neuhaus has fostered here. The group was excited to be educated about the benefits that operating in our FTZ can offer Chinese businesses that may consider investing in Orange County.”

Xi’an, also known as Sian, is the capital of Shaanxi Province. It is one of the oldest cities in China and has a population of approximately 12.9 million. Xi’an is an international tourist destination with more than 3,000 years of history and world-renowned attractions such as the Terracotta Warriors and Horses and its ancient City Wall.