Irit Ben-Abba Vitale stands beside a Voyah car while listening to the official's introduction at Dongfeng Motor Co. [Photo provided to en.whkfq.gov.cn]
Irit Ben-Abba Vitale, Israel's ambassador to China, began her visit to Dongfeng Motor Co in Wuhan Economic & Technological Development Zone (WHDZ) on Dec 14.
Dongfeng, a leading automobile manufacturer and researcher directly managed by the central government, ranks 85th in the global Fortune 500 company list, with assets totaling 555.3 billion yuan ($87.18 billion) and employing 137,000 people. The auto giant manufactures commercial vehicles, passenger cars, NEVs, and military vehicles, and currently has 13 major auto brands scattered throughout more than 20 cities in China. Its products enjoy robust sales in over 80 countries and regions.
During her visit, the ambassador listened to a briefing on the company's history and progress, and looked at a number of vehicles developed by the firm in the exhibition area.
Liu Ziqing, secretary of WHDZ's working committee, highlighted the grand historical and cultural foundations of China and Israel, as well as the strong partnership established by the two countries as part of the Belt and Road Initiative. He expressed hope that the ambassador can further strengthen their relationship by intensifying trade and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
With the 30th anniversary of the establishment of China-Israel diplomatic relation just around the corner, the ambassador expressed hope that she can help Israeli enterprises to explore Wuhan's market, and also encouraged Wuhan-based firms to make investments in Israel.
