Oakley, Antioch mayors visit China to strengthen global partnerships, promote sustainable development

Met with the China-United States Exchange Foundation, an NGO closely collaborating with the Chinese government

Paid for by Palo Alto-based nonprofit

By Danielle Navarro, Assistant City Manager, City of Oakley

Oakley, CA – Mayor Anissa Williams has successfully concluded a productive visit to Chongqing, China, aimed at fostering international cooperation and exploring new opportunities for economic and sustainable development. During the trip, the mayor attended several key meetings and events, reinforcing the city’s commitment to global partnerships, educational opportunities, and green city initiatives.

She was one of five mayors and one vice mayor from the Bay Area who participated in a global meeting of city leaders on May 22 and 23. They included Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe of Antioch, Antonio Lopez of East Palo Alto, John Dugan of San Carlos, Yan Zhao of Saratoga and Vice Mayor Marilyn Librers of Morgan Hill on her 38th visit to China. During Monday’s annual Antioch Memorial Day Ceremony, Hernandez-Thorpe pointed out that unlike him, the mayors in China whom they met with were appointed by the Chinese Communist Party. Then, during the Antioch City Council meeting Tuesday night, May 28, 2024, he said, “I was very proud to be the mayor and represent this city, absolutely proud. You sometimes forget how great this city is.” Hernandez-Thorpe then added he will present his remarks about the trip in a different way.

The elected officials were welcomed to Hong Kong on May 20, 2024. CUSEF’s President James Chau, Governor Alan Wong, and Governor Alex Fang who was raised between Hong Kong and Silicon Valley, met with the mayors. The delegation was organized by Victor Wang, founder and chairman of China Silicon Valley, a Palo Alto-based nonprofit founded in 2012, which paid for the trip. The organization was formed to improve business cooperation, create jobs, increase economic activity, facilitate investment and international trade and promote communications between China and the larger Silicon Valley region.

Reflecting the shared nature of the San Francisco Bay and the Greater Bay, the meetings centered on the hopes and concerns of the 95 million people living in both areas, including issues relating to economic growth, technology, and investment, as well as education, housing, and environmental resources.

Meetings and Collaborations

Williams and the others in the delegation met with the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF), an NGO closely collaborating with the Chinese government to enhance bilateral relations. The discussions focused on mutual cooperation and the benefits of cultural and economic exchanges between the two countries. In a strategic meeting with Invest HK, a government entity promoting investment in Hong Kong, the mayor explored avenues for facilitating business relationships between Hong Kong enterprises and the US. The discussions highlighted opportunities for businesses in the food and beverage, fashion, and logistics sectors to establish a footprint in the US, enhancing cross-country economic ties. Mayor Williams also engaged with various businesses from China, with a special focus on startups and green technology seeking expansion into the U.S. market, emphasizing Oakley’s welcoming environment for international investments and its strategic advantages as a business hub.

“We are delighted to welcome the mayors to Hong Kong, the first stop on their visit to China,” said CUSEF’s Chau after the delegation’s arrival. “Silicon Valley drives the world’s fifth largest economy and accelerates California’s reputation for knowledge, learning, and research. Today was an opportunity to exchange ideas and align values with the elected representatives of a dynamic and globally renowned community. CUSEF works with everyone who cares about the U.S. and China, and their proven track record for advancing the human condition.”

Industry Matchmaking and Sustainable Development

The mayor participated in an industry matchmaking event designed to link top industries in Chongqing with city leaders from around the world. This event featured representatives from various global cities, fostering an exchange of innovative ideas and best practices for future development projects, particularly in green city development. During the visit, Mayor Williams delivered a speech highlighting the unique opportunities that Oakley offers and stressed the importance of maintaining our delta lifestyle while building resilient and inclusive cities. She quoted, “As long as you are an official in a place, you need to create benefits for that place and its people,” a guiding principle she has followed during her term.

Strengthening Sister City Relationships

The importance of establishing sister city relationships with China was emphasized by Secretary Blinken, who noted that the two countries share the world’s largest economies. This visit to Chongqing marks a significant step in deepening Oakley’s international partnerships and advancing our agenda for sustainable and inclusive growth. Should we enter a sister city relationship, our youth will have incredible opportunities for participating in both cultural and educational exchanges.

The outcomes of this trip are expected to yield long-term benefits, fostering economic development, educational growth, and a deeper understanding of the cultures of our two countries.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.