(March 18, 2016)

I am thrilled to join you in welcoming the inaugural flight of the prestigious China Eastern Airlines from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to O’Hare International Airport.

I wish to express my warmest congratulations to China Eastern Airlines for opening its direct flight between Shanghai and Chicago. This is certainly a great move of strategic vision by China Eastern Airlines to expand its presence in North America, because Chicago is not only the most important transportation center in America’s Midwest, but also a city enthusiastic in embracing China and enjoying very strong ties with China in many areas.

I also wish to congratulate the O’Hare International Airport and the City of Chicago for becoming the new hub for another Chinese airlines. With more direct flights with China, this airport and the City of Chicago will play an even more important role in promoting the people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation in various areas between our two countries.

In closing, I wish China Eastern Airlines a great success in its new business and China-Chicago civic aviation cooperation an even more promising future. Thank you.