Ms. Michelle E. Messina, Founder and CEO of Explora International LLC

Ms. Michelle E. Messina, Founder and CEO of Explora International LLC, a Silicon Valley-based international training and consulting firm, has had rich experience in starting up business since she established her first company at the age of 17. She provides strategic guidance and practical recommendations to startups all over the world.

Ms. Messina said she had had some knowledge about Chengdu before the visit. "Chengdu, a huge pool of young talent, is vibrant and highly start-up friendly. The government here has issued many policies to support startups and entrepreneurs. I believe that the city has a promising future in its innovation and entrepreneurship initiative ."

Mr. Or Shahaf, CEO of Haifa Economic Corporation Ltd.

Mr. Or Shahaf, CEO of Haifa Economic Corporation Ltd., a municipal corporation wholly owned by the Municipality of Haifa, Israel, had visited Chengdu twice before this tour. He was amazed by the fast development of the city. "Every time I was here, I saw its tremendous changes." He also spoke highly of Chengdu government's strong support for the New Economy and startups.

As Chengdu's sister city, Haifa, the third largest city in Israel, is very similar to Chengdu. People of both cities are highly innovative and passionate, and full of vigor. He looks forward to further collaboration in more fields between the two sides in the future. "The hi-tech zone in Haifa is the largest one in our country. I hope that the industrial parks of both cities could learn from each other and work more closely together."

In addition, Mr. Shahaf revealed that his company was considering building a Sino-Israel incubator in Chengdu.