Gov. Doyle: Doyle, Governor Morita re-affirm Wisconsin-Chiba sister state agreement

Contact: Laura Smith, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162

MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle and Chiba Governor Kensaku Morita today signed a reaffirmation of the Wisconsin-Chiba Sister State agreement, which was first signed in 1990. For 20 years, Wisconsin and Chiba have used the partnership to promote and develop education, technological and scientific exchanges, and cultural awareness and understanding.

“The Sister-State agreement has not only helped develop our economies, it has also helped promote important friendships between the State of Wisconsin and the Prefecture of Chiba,” Governor Doyle said. “This is a really great day for both Wisconsin and Chiba, and we look forward to seeing this partnership flourish for many years to come.”

Japan is among Wisconsin’s most important export markets. Over the past 10 years, Japan has been one of Wisconsin’s top five export destinations. In 2008, Japan was Wisconsin’s 5th largest export partner, with $724 million in products sold. Over 20 Japanese companies have operations in Wisconsin – including Kikkoman, Toshiba, Sumitomo, Sony and NTT.

The Wisconsin-Chiba sister state agreement was first formalized on May 21, 1990 at a ceremony in Madison. Over the last 20 years, Chiba and Wisconsin have enjoyed a successful partnership including:

* Wisconsin and Chiba have developed their economies through trade missions and other trade promotion activities, including joint promotion of biotechnology, biomass, environment and private sector investment.

* Wisconsin and Chiba have worked together through partnerships and exchange programs among their schools, universities, students and teachers. Sixty Wisconsin schools have taken advantage of opportunities for sister schools, teacher development and teaching English.

* Wisconsin and Chiba have shared cultures through goodwill delegations, such as the Women of Wings program, and other exchanges consisting of individual artists, ensembles, educators and other professionals.

To read the full agreement, visit: http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us/docview.asp?docid=19515