Seminar offers strategies to promote Michigan businesses in China

The Ambassador Leonard Woodcock Legacy Seminar will feature Chinese and American government, business and education leaders discussing strategies to support Michigan's China initiatives. Attendees will gain information on how they take advantage of opportunities in this growing market.

The new Michigan China Center will serve several purposes for the state and Michigan businesses, including attracting foreign direct investment, export trade development, education initiatives and tourism.

"Having a permanent presence through the Michigan China Center will expand Michigan's engagement in the Chinese market and sends a strong signal about our commitment to increasing exports of Michigan-made products to China and attracting new investments to Michigan," Snyder said.

Along these lines, representatives of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation will report on the September 2012 Michigan Trade Mission to China, as well as on Snyder's China initiatives. Other speakers at the Woodcock Legacy Seminar will include:

• Chinese Consul General Yang Guoqiang
• Tom Watkins, president and CEO of TDW and Associates and former superintendent of Michigan schools
• Alan Flint, vice president, International-5/3 Bank, Chicago

Named in honor of Leonard Woodcock, former president of the United Auto Workers and first U.S. Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, the Woodcock Legacy Seminar series supports bilateral exchanges in education, business and industry, and research, with the goal of promoting mutual understanding between the United States and China.

The free event will take place from 2-4:30 p.m. on Nov. 1 at Oakland University's Meadow Brook Hall. A networking reception will be held after the seminar from 4:30-6 p.m. Those interested in reserving a seat at the event should e-mail to megilroy@oakland.edu.