TRADE MISSION NOTES:

Washington and China: a solid foundation for future growth

Randy Aliment, Williams Kastner

08/31/10

Washington has had a long and cooperative relationship with China dating back to the 1860s when the first Chinese immigrants arrived in Seattle. In 1909-10, the University of Washington established its first China Studies program. Our positive relationship continued, thanks in large part to Washington’s engaged leadership, including Senator Warren Magnusson who became a leading advocate for normalized relations with China during the 1950s. Our friendly and reciprocal political ties are evident. Every Chinese president to visit the U.S. since Deng Xiao Ping in 1979 has made Seattle the first stop. Governor Dixie Lee Ray led Washington’s first trade mission to China in September 1979. The Chinese recognize that Washington’s business community is both innovative and skilled to deliver superior products. Whether in aerospace and aviation, the technology sector, or in consumer goods, Washington is a leading global business partner for China. I believe lessons from Washington’s history of success can help China continue its impressive economic growth.

For these and other reasons, I’m confident the Governor’s trade mission will be beneficial for our state. I was proud to take part in preparing the legal handbook Doing Business in Washington, serving as editor and contributing author. This book will help to equip Chinese business representatives with basic tools on how to successfully navigate legal requirements for their business from inception through successful operation in Washington. As a gesture of respect, we arranged to have our handbook translated to Chinese with the assistance of students from two leading Beijing universities. I look forward to helping our governor share this resource with all Chinese business representatives who are considering Washington as the base for their operations in the United States and North America.