San Francisco Sun

San Francisco, CA — On Saturday, Mayor London N. Breed is set to embark on a journey to China along with a delegation of San Francisco-based API business and community leaders. The purpose of the trip is to strengthen economic connections and enhance cultural ties between San Francisco and various cities in China.

During this trip, Mayor Breed and the delegation will visit multiple cities in China, including Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Shanghai. The visit aims to foster relationships with businesses, airlines, and local leaders in China, with a focus on stimulating economic growth and expanding tourism markets in San Francisco.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the trip, Mayor Breed stated, "I am honored to be invited to travel to China and meet with leaders in business, innovation, and government to cultivate economic opportunities and strengthen ties between San Francisco and cities across the region."

The delegation's agenda includes meetings with key stakeholders such as Chinese-based businesses like CVTE and AmCham China, as well as airline executives from Shenzhen Airlines, Air China, and Hainan Airlines. The goal is to attract new businesses and industries to San Francisco, particularly in Downtown neighborhoods and areas like Chinatown, Richmond, the Sunset, and Visitacion Valley.

Furthermore, the visit to China aligns with Mayor Breed's vision for the future of San Francisco, as outlined in her 30 by 30 plan, which aims to add 30,000 more residents and students to San Francisco’s Downtown by 2030. The strategy also involves forging stronger educational relationships, such as with Fudan University in Shanghai.

In addition to economic objectives, the trip will focus on bolstering diplomatic relations and cultural ties between San Francisco and China. Mayor Breed will engage with government officials in various Chinese cities, as well as with U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns in Beijing.

Scott Beck, President and CEO of San Francisco Travel, emphasized the significance of the trip in rebuilding San Francisco's tourism industry, stating, "A critical part of rebuilding visitation from China is building back air service to the San Francisco International Airport, and bolstering connections with travel and aviation partners is key to attracting Chinese visitors to San Francisco."

SFO Airport Director Ivar C. Satero echoed this sentiment, affirming the airport's commitment to becoming the premier US gateway from China and acknowledging Mayor Breed's dedication to strengthening international markets.

The delegation accompanying Mayor Breed comprises entrepreneurs, business executives, and API community leaders from San Francisco. Their collaborative efforts aim to forge lasting partnerships with Chinese counterparts and attract new industries to the city.

The Mayor's travel to China is made possible through funding from the San Francisco Special Events Committee, highlighting the city's commitment to supporting initiatives that hold civic and cultural importance.

Overall, Mayor Breed's upcoming trip to China signifies a significant step towards enhancing economic cooperation and cultural exchange between San Francisco and Chinese cities, with a focus on fostering mutual growth and prosperity.