Leaders from Nanchong, China, and the Chinese Consul General to the United States visited Toledo to build relationships and discuss economic cooperation. The delegation, including Nanchong's mayor, city councilmen, and the Chinese Consul General, took a boat ride along the Maumee River and engaged in discussions with Toledo leaders. The topics covered included riverfront construction projects, international travel, education, industrial development, trade, investment, and scientific research. Mayor Yin Nianhong highlighted Nanchong's population of seven million, 150,000 college students, and GDP of nearly $200 million, expressing hope for cooperation in various sectors. Councilwoman Cerssandra McPherson expressed concern about the reliance on Chinese imports without developing the ability to export at the same level. Paul Zito from the Regional Growth Partnership emphasized the potential for foreign direct investment in industries such as electric vehicles, semiconductors, manufacturing, and communications in Toledo. The visit aimed to build relationships for future cooperation, and Mayor Nianhong extended an invitation for Toledoans to visit Nanchong. [e6ab76fa]