For instance, people like Guo Fan, Chen Sicheng, Xiao Yang, and Yu Baimei were students of Hollywood during those years. Upon returning, each contributed to the development of Chinese cinema.
The ideas are good, but their execution could be challenging.
After a sip of water, Eric gathered his thoughts and said, "Mr. Wang, the first proposal is absolutely doable. MGM can even connect you with other major Hollywood companies."
"Want to learn animation? I can help you establish contacts with DreamWorks. Special effects? We can reach out to Weta Digital, they're the best in the business."
"The number of people is also not a problem. After all, you're paying for the training, not getting it for free."
There were light chuckles around the room.
"But when it comes to creating a distribution network, it's more complicated. There are too many factors at play."
"Cultural differences, different legal frameworks, revenue-sharing models from box office earnings, various distribution methods, and the inconsistency in film quality."
"I prefer to approach this responsibly and not make empty promises."
"In my experience, this will likely lead to China investing enormous resources, while the films will still primarily cater to Chinese communities."
"So, we can work on it, and MGM is ready to assist, but I advise not placing too much hope on this. Do you understand what I mean?"
Eric wanted to avoid accusations of not providing enough support if the project didn't succeed.
To his surprise, Director Wang didn't show dissatisfaction; instead, he appreciated the honesty.
"Mr. Cooper, we have a saying in China: 'He who strives will eventually succeed.' Even if the outcome isn't perfect, it's better to try than to do nothing. Every journey begins with the first step, right?"
Hearing such an attitude, Eric was ready to proceed. After all, this was a mutually beneficial collaboration.
"Alright, let's include these points in the contract."
Han Sanping, who had been tensely following the conversation, finally relaxed. With the signing of this agreement, he would have a solid case for advancing his career.
Director Wang's face lit up with a smile, "Mr. Cooper, I wish us successful cooperation in advance. Secretary Li, now it's your turn."
Secretary Li also smiled. A good start is half the success.
Despite this being their first meeting, this young man had left a strong impression as a business-minded and reliable partner, unlike others who made lofty promises without substance.
"Mr. Cooper, regarding your investment project for building a factory, on behalf of the Beijing Municipal Government, I extend a warm welcome to you. I'll be brief—here's a map of available industrial land around Beijing. Choose any one of the three."
The lights in the conference room dimmed, and a projector screen slowly descended, displaying a plan of Beijing. The head of the land management department approached with a laser pointer, and a red dot illuminated the map, guiding his description of the proposed plots.
After ten minutes of analyzing the pros and cons, Eric had more or less made up his mind.
"Secretary Li, the primary goal of MGM's investment in the factory is to support the future production of various peripheral products," Eric began.
"Labor and material costs in China are significantly lower than in the U.S., so I plan to relocate production lines here in the future."
"The area for the first phase will be small, only 500 mu (approximately 33 hectares), and the investment will be $50 million. But as production expands, we'll need more space."
"I anticipate that in two years, the factory will need to double or even triple in size, so having reserve land is an important factor for me. Plot number 3 appeals to me, but I'll need your assistance in this matter."
Secretary Li nodded, "That won't be a problem. Our current policy is focused on attracting investors. Mr. Cooper, you just need to ensure the funds come in, and we'll handle all the organizational matters."
"Thank you. The money will come soon. Once Susan registers the company and opens the account, the initial funds from MGM will be transferred."
"But I won't be able to stay in Beijing for long, so after I leave, Susan will be fully in charge of local affairs. I hope for the municipal government's support."
"No problem. All necessary departments will cooperate fully, and any issues will be resolved at the highest level. If there are difficulties, Susan can contact me directly."
"Haha, with such words, I can rest easy."
After discussing numerous details over the course of more than two hours, the key matters were settled.
Secretary Li suggested, "Since everything is decided, we should finalize the contract in the next few days and sign it before Mr. Cooper leaves. Then, we can hold a joint press conference. How does that sound?"
"I have no objections, let's follow your plan," Eric responded.
Secretary Li laughed, "Mr. Cooper, during our first meeting, I said that you're young and promising. That's a traditional Chinese compliment for a guest."
"But after today's conversation, I must sincerely repeat those words. There isn't a trace of youthful inexperience in you, despite being only in your twenties. When I was your age, I was still working as a village secretary."
"Not to mention investing $50 million, I would've taken a long time to decide on spending 5,000 yuan. Young people like you are bold and fearless."
Director Wang, checking the time, added, "Enough with the compliments, Secretary Li. Save the flattering words for the banquet. We worked hard to attract MGM."
"If it weren't for Sanping, who maintained the connections and was the first to deliver the good news to you, this project might have gone to Tianjin."
"Beijing is the center, but it has no coastline, and MGM's products are meant for the global market. So, Li, you should be the first to drink three glasses."
The room filled with laughter.
Eric understood what Director Wang was hinting at. In the future, MGM would undoubtedly open more factories in China. The first one in Beijing was a political move, but Guangzhou and Shenzhen would follow.
China would become the world's factory, with an enormous workforce and opportunities to reduce costs. Soon, all major global companies would be flocking here.
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