Deal signings, new institute part of trade mission's final day

A trade mission to Japan and China led by Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle wrapped up with a reception that included Clark Randt, U.S. ambassador to the People's Republic of China, as featured guest.

"We are proud to be citizens of the United States and we are proud to be good friends of the people of China," said Doyle, speaking at the reception. The Business Journal is the only media from southeastern Wisconsin on the trip and attended the reception.


Doyle announced that the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will form a Confucius Institute to foster better understanding of Chinese culture. Doyle addressed reporters from Wisconsin in a teleconference following the reception.

During his last full day in China, Doyle joined executives from TomoTherapy Inc. to launch the Madison-based medical device company's Hi-Art system at PLA301, one of the largest hospitals in China.

Doyle also took part in a ceremonial signing of a deal between Oshkosh Truck Corp., of Oshkosh, and the Chinese airport authority. Oshkosh (NYSE: OSK - News) will provide China with two snow removal vehicles, worth $1 million, for the Beijing Capital International Airport.

Oshkosh previously announced the sale of six emergency response vehicles purchased in preparation for the 2008 Summer Olympics in a deal worth $5 million.

Although Wisconsin exports to China have increased about 120 percent since Doyle led a prior mission to China in 2004, the relationship between the state and China "goes beyond commerce," Doyle said.

"It's also an exchange of education and culture," he said.

The trip to Japan and China created an opportunity for Wisconsin businesses, educators and government officials to foster key relationships with potential customers, he said.

"The growth potential in China is incredible," Doyle said.

Doyle and a business delegation departed for Asia on Sept. 7. Doyle visited Tokyo before making stops in four cities in China: Shanghai, Ningbo, Xian and Beijing.

"This is really kind of a sales mission we've been on," Doyle said.

About half of the nearly 80 mission participants were scheduled to depart for Wisconsin early Tuesday morning, or Monday night in Milwaukee. The remaining mission participants were to remain in Beijing for an additional day, with the only formal event planned being the U.S.-Sino Dairy Center seminar.

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