Feb. 23, 2009

13th District representatives host delegation from Gunpo, South Korea in Olympia

A delegation of officials from Gunpo City, South Korea was hosted by Reps. Judy Warnick and Bill Hinkle in Olympia today. Mayor Jae-young Ro, his wife, city council members, the editor of the Korean Daily News and several government officials are in Washington to celebrate the centennial celebration of Grant County. Grant County has a sister relationship with the city of Gunpo.

Last summer, Warnick visited Gunpo with a delegation from Grant County, and invited her new friends to Olympia.

"I was honored to be their guest and learn about their businesses, visit their schools and experience the Korean culture," said Warnick, R-Moses Lake. "Our relationship with Gunpo City goes beyond a cultural experience though, we have established an important trade relationship with Korea as a result of this sister agreement."

During their visit, the delegation toured the capitol campus, watched House floor action, shared lunch with Warnick and Sen. Paull Shin and met with statewide elected officials.

"They're very interested in our political and elections process," said Hinkle, R-Cle Elum. "It was great to show them around our Capitol, discuss government and continue this important partnership between Grant County and Gunpo City."

On the capitol campus, the flag of the Republic of Korea was flown at the flag circle to welcome the delegation. The floor of the House of Representatives took a break from passing bills to welcome and recognize the delegation.

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Reps. Warnick and Hinkle with the Gunpo City delegation on the House floor, Feb. 23, 2009.

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