Pictured above: St. Louis local leaders and Jiangsu delegates led by
Vice Governor Fang Wei (sixth from left) and Vice Mayor Deng Zhiyi (third from left) pose for a group photo
USHCA Chairman & President, Bob Holden, sitting next to
Consul General of China in Chicago, Zhao Jian
Bob Holden standing next to the dragon boat post-ceremony
with Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Fang Wei
On Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023, USHCA joined with the St. Louis-Nanjing Sister Cities Committee and the World Trade Center St. Louis to welcome a delegation from Jiangsu Province, which comprised of prominent government officials and business leaders. Their visit aimed to further foster the cultural and economic exchange opportunities that have flourished over the 44 years since the establishment of the sister city relationship between Jiangsu’s capital of Nanjing and St. Louis.
The highlight of their visit was the presentation of a dragon boat to the city of St. Louis which took place at the Missouri Botanical Garden. As part of the ceremony, representatives from both countries painted the eyes and head of the dragon boat with a vibrant red dye, symbolizing the dragon awakening from its slumber. Following the ceremony, the delegation enjoyed a tour of the Chinese Garden.
Click here to read the World Trade Center – St. Louis’ coverage of the event.