Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 12, 2003
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke Praises Sale of Boeing Airplanes to China; Plays Role in Finalizing Deal

Gov. Gary Locke today praised China’s purchase of 30 Boeing Next-Generation 737 airplanes. The agreement was announced today in Washington D.C.

The governor played a role in finalizing the jet sale agreement while on his recent trade mission to China as well as during a special one-day trip to Beijing last December with Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Alan Mulally.

“This means jobs for Washington workers. Washington state and Boeing have worked hard to bring our two countries closer together and make this agreement a reality,” Locke said. “This agreement reflects our state’s valued friendship and strong trade relationship with China.”

On Sunday, Locke celebrated the deal by hosting the senior-level Chinese and Boeing officials involved in today’s signing at a dinner in Seattle. The governor was invited to attend today’s signing ceremony in Washington D.C., but he had a scheduling conflict. Locke hosted the first-ever Northwest Maritime Trade Summit today in Seattle.

“I am proud to have played a role in today’s agreement. This is truly a win-win. China acquires the best airplanes in the world, Boeing continues to be the preferred partner of China’s growing aviation industry, and our state further solidifies trade relations with a country that is eager to do even more business with Washington companies and farmers.

“We are proud to be a leading trade partner with China. We are proud to be the home of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. This is a great day for our state, for our nation and for international trade relations.”

In October, Locke led a 75-member trade delegation to China to promote Washington products, including Boeing airplanes. The governor presented a model of the 737 to each senior-level government official he met during the mission. The tail section was colored red to signify the section of the 737 manufactured in China. Locke’s message to the Chinese: Buying Boeing jets benefits both China and the U.S. In December 2002, Locke and Mulally traveled to Beijing to promote trade and celebrate Boeing’s 30-year partnership with the country.

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