Today, following her participation in a signing ceremony for Qatar Airways’ purchase of Boeing Aircraft, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo released the following statement:

“I’m honored and excited to celebrate this new development in the thriving trade relationship between the United States and Qatar. Today, we’re announcing a deal of historic significance between the Boeing Company and Qatar Airways’ cargo affiliate. This deal is the largest dollar value commitment for freighter aircraft in Boeing’s history.

“More importantly, the economic impact of this sale will reverberate throughout the United States. It’s a win for our workers, our manufacturers, and our suppliers. These new freighters will be manufactured and assembled by American workers on American soil in Everett, Washington. And the aircraft will include GE9X engines produced by GE Aviation, also built and assembled in the U.S. Both Boeing and GE Aviation rely on hundreds of suppliers located in states across the U.S., many of whom will play integral roles in the production of these freighters.

“The Biden Administration has prioritized the revitalization of our manufacturing economy. This investment from our friends in Qatar represents another step towards fulfilling that priority. It means good jobs right here in America, billions of dollars more in exports, and a much-needed boost to America’s manufacturing sector. This announcement also builds on recent investments in American workers and manufacturing by General Motors and Intel. Like those investments, today’s deal underscores the importance of revitalizing America’s semiconductor industry. Each of these aircraft will require an enormous amount of chips, which is why the administration is urging Congress to put a semiconductor bill on President Biden’s desk as soon as possible.

“Today’s announcement also reaffirms the historic commitment and trade relationship between the U.S. and Qatar. This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our nations, and this landmark agreement reflects our deep and lasting relationship. In areas ranging from security cooperation to energy to commerce, our broad and growing partnership supports peace and prosperity in the region and is a great mutual benefit. We thank Qatar for its friendship and look forward to many future opportunities as we work together to achieve great outcomes for the people of the United States and Qatar.”