Q: What's the most difficult thing in the negotiation between foreign companies and the government? What's your advice for the local government?
A: The most important thing for foreigners here is having a good living environment. And the problem I heard most was the medical situation for foreigners. We don't have doctors who can speak our languages.Shenyanghas great hospitals but they can't service foreigners. So investment situations are taken, like do you have schools, do you have a nice environment, do you have good medical facilities?
For the government it is very easy. They keep excellent hospitals in Shenyang. The problem is the shortage of facilities capable for foreigners. There should be some engagement from the government. This is a real investment drive force.
Q: During the financial crisis, what did the EUCCC do to help foreign companies run their business inChina?
A: We brought good speakers to the platform to talk about the economy and what they expected. Also, we did a survey which lasted for three weeks [on how] companies responded to the crisis. So maybe you can learn from it.
Q: What are the focuses of the EUCCC in the future?
A: It's interesting for us to see how much information and synergies we can get. EU Chamber should putLiaoningon the investment map that we can all benefit from. And I talk about not only economic benefits but also the investment climate, like how people live here. Because there are still so many employees of foreign companies in Shenyang who have their families inBeijing. They fly up on Monday and fly down on Friday, which is not good for a family. It should encourage the city to make living easier for people.
