Gov. Gregoire�s statement on WTO report

For Immediate Release: March 31, 2011

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire issued the following statement on the panel report released today by the World Trade Organization:

�This panel report reflects a broad win for the United States and for Boeing, essentially reinforcing what we have long said � that European subsidies to Airbus are far larger than anything the United States does for Boeing. In Washington state, we are still reviewing the panel report and will be consulting with federal trade officials on our next steps. It�s important to remember that these panel findings could change as a result of the appeals process. Given that � it�s unclear what the effect of the panel report will be on Washington state at this time.

�It�s also important to remember that U.S. obligations under the World Trade Organization agreement apply to all states. Whatever the final result, we will continue to work to ensure that Washington maintains its competitiveness to keep and attract aerospace companies.

�Regardless of this report, Washington state is a great place for aerospace companies to conduct business. We�re home to more than 82,000 highly skilled aerospace workers, employed by 650 aerospace companies � creating one of the most dynamic aerospace centers in the world. We stand behind our companies � they are important to our economy and to our local communities. I pledge continued work to keep our state a vital player in cutting edge industries like the aerospace sector.�


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