In order to show appreciation for our athletes' participation in the Okinawa marathon and offer an invitation to the 24th Naha Marathon Race held on December 7th, Mr. Hirata, Hisao, the chairman of the Okinawa Earth Marathon Association led Mr. Ito, Nakatani the director of general affairs of the Naha Marathon Committee and other 8 members in a visit with Mayor Hu today (August 21st). Mayor Hu expected constructive communication between both sides to promote trade, culture, and tourism.

Mr. Hirata pointed out that Taiwanese athletes have been participating in the Marathon for the past 5 years, with about 150 participants coming from Taiwan each year. He expressed gratitude at the warm welcome each time he has come to Taiwan. He added that each year the Marathon was richer in terms of scale and content; noting the addition of golf this year. He noted his expectation that some participants to the golf event would come from Taiwan.

Mayor Hu stressed the good relationship between Okinawa and Taichung, and looked forward more cultural exchange because Taichung City maintained a high standard in calligraphy, painting, sculpture, and music. He looked forward to increased communication in terms of trade, economy and tourism development.

During his dialogue, the mayor gave recognition to the high standard of baseball in Okinawa, and offered an invitation to baseball teams from Japan to come to Taichung.