Gov. Rauner meets with Party Secretary of Zhejiang University

Hangzhou, China (Sept. 17, 2017) - Gov. Bruce Rauner had the good fortune to meet with the Party Secretary of Zhejiang University.

The two discussed the successful University of Illinois and Zhejiang University collaboration on science and technology, engineering, innovation and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, they discussed the need for increased partnership on life sciences and discussed ways to promote joint research and development.

"It is our great honor to host you and your delegation," Party Secretary Zou Xiaodong said. "We look forward to strengthening our relationship between Zhejiang University and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the areas of engineering, entrepreneurship, science, technology transfer and cultural exchange to improve our partnership in developing the next generation of global leaders"

The University of Illinois has been engaged with China for over 100 years. As of 2016, 5,600 Chinese undergraduate and graduate students were enrolled in the University.

"Illinois ranks fifth in the nation in attracting Chinese students to its universities, generating $350 million for our state's economy," Gov. Rauner said. "We want to be the center where these students choose to learn and grow. But we also want Illinois' students to have the opportunity to study in China to further strengthen our Sino-American relations."

The governor concluded with his goal of developing an ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship to create great minds and our next generation of global leaders.