Atlanta extends hand of friendship to China

Delta will launch its new nonstop service from Atlanta to Shanghai next month, making it easier for people in China to do business, explore the Western hemisphere and visit loved ones. But beyond these benefits, why chose Atlanta over New York, LA or Washington? The answer: because China and Georgia are a perfect match.

There is ample common ground. For example, 12 years ago Atlanta hosted the Olympics and this year its China's turn. Both have enjoyed a decade of strong economic growth - China's boom is historic while Atlanta and its neighbors constitute the fastest-growing part of the US.

In other words, in Atlanta, China will find a successful, ambitious partner that wants to prove how much it values their connection. The relationship has been gaining momentum, especially in trade. China ranked as Georgia's second largest export destination last year with $1.6 billion in trade, up from $1.1 billion in 2006. More than half of the goods passing through the port at Savannah - the fastest-growing port in the US - come from China, amounting to $13 billion worth last year. When it comes to Chinese foreign direct investment in Georgia, SANY Heavy Industries and General Protecht have each set up operations in metro Atlanta, making them neighbors to corporate giants like Coca-Cola, Delta, CNN, Turner Broadcasting and UPS.