Fort Bend County, TX– County Judge Bob Hebert met with Consul General Gao Yanping, the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Houston. Judge Hebert invited the Consul General to attend a private welcome reception and luncheon prepared by Allison Wen of Safari Texas Ranch on March 30, 2011. Others who attended with the Consul General included the Consul & Director of the Education Office and the Consul & Director of Economic Development. Fort Bend representatives attending with the Judge included the Fort Bend County “Friendship Committee” and representatives of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council.
The Fort Bend County Friendship Committee was created to explore and facilitate a “Sister Community” relationship that will our understanding of the Chinese culture and heritage, while benefitting the Fort Bend Economy with opportunities for future business recruitment and the development of key industry ties in business sectors complimentary to Fort Bend County. Members who participate on the Friendship Committee include George Chang, Michael Liu, Gary Lo, Howard Paul, Allison Wen, Jeff Wiley and Daniel Wong.
Consul General Gao received a crystal bridge from Judge Hebert as a token of friendship. Herb Appel, CEO of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council, presented an overview of local economic conditions and the strengths of Fort Bend County for the benefit of Consul General Gao and her staff.
Judge Hebert stated, “As we look to the future development of mutual friendship and respect, we envision a growing awareness and appreciation of each other’s culture and people. As we move forward, we hope this partnership will provide a means of fostering educational, economic, and professional exchanges.”
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