HOUSTON, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) -- Governor Sonny Perdue of the U.S. state of Georgia has proclaimed Oct. 1, 2009 as "China's National Day in Georgia," calling on local citizens to celebrate with the Chinese people on the occasion.
"October 1, 2009 marks the 60th (founding) anniversary of the People's Republic of China. With our strong bond of friendship and growing economic partnership, the state of Georgia is pleased to celebrate with the People's Republic of China on the occasion of its National Day," Perdue said in a sealed proclamation dated on Sept. 16.
China and the U.S. state of Georgia share a dynamic and growing relationship with deep social and economic roots. According to the Atlanta Chapter of the U.S. National Association of Chinese-Americans, approximately 50,000 Chinese live in Georgia.
"The contributions of these individuals, along with the companies, universities and organizations with direct ties to both lands, help bring together two nations half a world apart," Perdue said, adding that the linkage between China and Georgia continues to strengthen and multiply.
China has been the fastest growing market for U.S. exports for 6 years in a row, and is now the major export destination for Georgia and seven other states in the U.S. South. Statistics show that Georgia took the third place among the 8 states in the south, exporting nearly two billion dollars of products and services to China in 2008.
"Georgia Port Authority's partnership with Shanghai International Port Group was signed in Savannah on October 11, 2005 and enables both ports to jointly promote all-water shipping routes between Shanghai and Savannah," the governor noted. "In March 2008, Georgia-based Delta Airlines began operating a daily nonstop flight from Atlanta to Shanghai."
Earlier this year, four major Chinese companies -- Kingwasong, Hailun Piano, General Protecht and Sany Heavy Industry -- have all announced plans to locate facilities in Georgia, creating more job and investment opportunities in the state.
"I, Sonny Perdue, Governor of the state of Georgia, do hereby proclaim October 1, 2009, as China's National Day in Georgia and call this observance to the attention of our citizens," Perdue wrote, expressing his belief that "these new partnerships will further strengthen the economic and cultural ties that are bringing China and Georgia closer together."
