Muncie Mayor Sharon McShurley made a stride in international relations with China on Thursday, signing an agreement with officials from Zhuji City.
Both parties met at the Chinese Consulate General's office in Chicago, and McShurley extended an invitation for Chinese officials to visit Muncie later in the year.
Terry Murphy, vice president of Economic Development in Delaware County, said this is the fourth sister-city agreement Muncie has signed. The other three are with cities in China, Taiwan and Turkey.
According to a press release, McShurley has three main objectives for the new relationship with Zhuji City: economic development, education and cultural exchanges.
Murphy said this agreement could bring more international business to the community. When they're looking for a place to make investments, they should think of Muncie, Murphy said.
"It's an oportunity for them to look at a growing city," he said.
Potentially, students could take some courses at Ball State University and some in their hometown in China, Murphy said. There are also opportunities for students to learn about different cities through cultural exchanges and living with host families.
Murphy said these goals will take time to implement, but the process will start immediately.
"It takes years to develop strong sister-city relationships," he said.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
