Nearly 8,000 miles separate Southeast Texas from Taipei, Taiwan, but the vast expanse of miles doesn’t keep the two areas from sharing common interests.

Michael B. Ger, deputy director-general Taipei Economic and Cultural, and five of his colleagues visited the ranch of Judge Carl Griffith on Sunday.

Ger is the consulate representative for his country and is responsible for visiting five southern U.S. states: Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Mississippi. He spoke with members of Port Arthur City Council, Economic Development Corporation, Port of Port Arthur Commissioners and other local officials about the connection between the two areas.

“In 2006, trade between the U.S. and Taiwan came in at $62 billion,” he said. “We are the eighth largest trading partner in the U.S. Trade between Texas and Taiwan was $4 billion in 2006 and we are the fifth largest trading partner with Texas.”

Ger said he hopes that through the social gathering, the consulate can learn more about Port Arthur and which could later lead to trade and economic opportunities.

Mayor Deloris “Bobbie” Prince presented Ger with the key to the city and came away from the meeting with excitement.

“This was productive, and I’m excited about the possibilities of investment with the Taiwan government,” she said after a catered meal at the ranch.

President of the Port of Port Arthur Commissioners, Mark Underhill, said he feels the meeting was a good opportunity.

“They are potential trading partners,” he said. “It’s important to let then know we are ready to work with them on future projects.”