Some 30 government officials from central China's Henan Province left Thursday for the University of Maryland in the United States on an eight-month training program.
The cadres will study advanced economic and managerial theories and experience to help Henan participate in the international competition when China accedes to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
It is the first time that Henan sent senior officials to study in America. The second group of trainees, which involve another 30 local officials, are also ready to set off later.
The 60 officials, selected from over 380 local candidates after province-wide examinations, have had their English improved in a five-month English training class.
It is expected that they may bring back useful knowledge to improve local economic performance to meet with the future challenge.
(Xinhua 02/01/2001)