INDIANAPOLIS (July 30, 2005) – Governor Mitch Daniels and members of the Indiana delegation departed Indianapolis today for Taipei, Taiwan, beginning a seven-day mission to seek new opportunities for economic growth.  The delegation of 78 Hoosiers includes six members of the Indiana General Assembly and seven mayors; representatives of three Indiana universities; 31 business leaders, and 22 local economic development officials.

“From the outset I said I would be the state’s top advocate to attract new jobs and economic opportunities,” said Governor Daniels.  “More than 45,000 Hoosiers work for Asian-based companies.  This is a tremendous opportunity for Indiana to build our relationships in Asia and seek new opportunities for jobs as the Asian economy continues to grow.”

The governor identified the goals for the trip as thanking current investors for their commitment to Indiana, promoting Indiana as an ideal location for future investment, expanding exports, and continuing the legacy of friendship and good relations through educational, social, and cultural exchanges.

The delegation will arrive late Sunday in Taipei, Taiwan for a day of meetings with Taiwanese business and government leaders.  The governor will reaffirm Indiana’s Sister-State relationship with the Province of Taiwan, meet with Taiwanese President Chen, and give a presentation to the local business community about the benefits of investing in Indiana.

On Tuesday the delegation will travel to Tokyo for five days of meetings in Japan.  The governor will visit with top executives from Toyota, Mitsubishi, Subaru, and other current and potential investors as well as visit the World Expo.

In addition to the governor, the state will be represented by Secretary of Commerce Pat Miller, IEDC President Mickey Maurer, and Agriculture Department Director Andy Miller. 

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