Google Inc. and China’s government may be quarreling, (read the story) but that is not stopping two Iowa groups from learning as much as they can about Chinese culture as its presence grows in the state.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership and the Ames Chamber of Commerce are organizing a business mission trip to China this September.

The trip will provide its participants with opportunities to explore new business relationships in China. Participants will visit with U.S. embassy officials, attend business trade shows and conduct meetings with Chinese companies and companies that have offices in China.

“The Partnership is committed to helping Central Iowa business succeed in the international marketplace,” said Martha Willits, president and CEO of the Partnership. “Developing stronger business relationships in China is critical in today’s global economy.”

The Asian population in Iowa has increased 26.4 percent from 37,566 after the 2000 census to 47,486 in 2008, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates.

“Between Iowa State University and our diverse business community, I think this will be a great way to learn more about the Chinese economy while providing potential opportunities for our business community to do business in China,” said Dan Culhane, president of the Ames Chamber of Commerce.

The trip will visit Beijing and Shanghai between Sept. 1 and Sept. 8, with an optional two-day extension to visit Des Moines’ sister city of Shijiazhuang.

To learn more about the trip, go to www.desmoinesmetro.com.