Boustany Meets With Chinese President Hu

Washington, DC – Representative Charles Boustany, (R-Southwest Louisiana), today met with Chinese President Hu Jintao at the United States Capitol to discuss the relationship between the United States and China, as well as other pressing issues for both nations.

“I was pleased to have the opportunity to join our Congressional leaders today and have a discussion with President Hu,” Boustany said. “The relationship between the United States and China is one of the most important on the global stage today. China is our third largest trading partner and is the second largest economy in the world. I will continue to work with my colleagues to develop solutions in order to build a stronger partnership with China. I thank President Hu for meeting with us today.”

Congressman Boustany is the co-chair of the US-China Working Group, which seeks to build diplomatic relations with China and make Congress more aware of US-China issues. The bipartisan meeting was held at the Capitol and was hosted by Speaker John Boehner.

“A strong relationship with China is critical for Louisiana,” Boustany explained. “Louisiana is a leader in global exports thanks to our agriculture and petroleum industries, as well as the extensive port system along the coast. The state ranks as the 4^th largest exporter to China among the fifty states with over $2.7 billion in exports through the third quarter of 2010. Our state has a vested interest in US-China relationships, and I will continue do my part to develop these ties for the good of Louisiana.”