Thinking Big about China?

John Watkins (pictured), chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in the People’s Republic of China, will discuss "Thinking Big About China" during an "Ideas in Indiana" luncheon sponsored by Sagamore Institute for Policy Research and co-hosted by Asian Programs of University of Indianapolis.

The event, to be held in the Museum of Master Au Ho-nien at UIndy, is scheduled for 6 May, with registration at 11 a.m. and the luncheon set for 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Watkins is Corporate Vice President of Cummins Inc. and President of Cummins East Asia, which employs more than 6,000 across China in 14 manufacturing plants, two R&D centers, and many sales and service centers.

Following the talk, a small group of leading researchers, businesspeople and policymakers will discuss what can “bring out the best” in Indiana businesses and universities that are engaged in China.

As John Clark of SIPR notes, "China's rise is seen by some as a threat and by others as an opportunity. It has the potential to bring out the best or the worst in both societies. The risks of China's rise are real---but less threatening than most think and the opportunities are far greater than most can envision. American stakeholders who want improvements in the trade and overall bi-lateral relationship will be better served by focusing more time, energy and resources on maximizing our opportunities through a solution-oriented, innovative and can-do winning attitude and approach---in the way President John F. Kennedy challenged Americans to think big and go after an audacious goal. To use a sports metaphor, we have to play offense as well as defense."

The Museum of Master Au Ho-nien is in the basement of the Schwitzer Student Center at UIndy, 1400 East Hanna Avenue, Indianapolis. Required reservations are due by 4 May; contact Susan Stinn, 317:472-2053.

Clark adds: "Indiana possesses many “hidden treasures” linking the state to China. Watkins' lunch talk and the discussion will take place in one of these little known assets, the museum of Master Au Ho-nien at the University of Indianapolis. Master Au is one of the greatest living traditional Chinese artists."

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