(CBS DETROIT) – Chinese Consul General Zhao Jian talked about growing more business and cultural connections between the Asian nation and Michigan, with automotive being a catalyst during Michigan Matters, which airs this Sunday.
Zhao, the 11th Consul General of China, is based in Chicago and oversees nine states, including Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Indiana and Iowa. He is working with leaders across Michigan to support two-way economic opportunities between the state that put the world on wheels and his country, with its 1.4 billion population and growing middle class in the market for vehicles and other products.
Zhao, who has been in this diplomatic role for just over four years, talked about the Motor City’s impact on China. He was effusive when talking about the Detroit Auto Show.
Zhao expects more Chinese manufacturers and parts makers will be part of the upcoming Detroit Auto Show, which has been moved to January of 2025 after being held in the fall the past few years.