FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                     CONTACT:  

March 9, 2011                                            Erica Hurtt (202) 457-8783

WASHINGTON, DC – Financial Services Forum President Rob Nichols released the following statement on the nomination of Gary Locke as ambassador to China:

"Secretary Locke is an excellent choice to represent U.S. interests in China.  Due to his extensive professional experiences and personal connections to China, Locke possesses a deep understanding of the region, its issues, and its people.

"The U.S.-China relationship is one of the most important bilateral trade relationships in the world. Between 2002 and 2007, the United States and China accounted for half of global economic growth. Without question, how this critical relationship is managed will greatly impact the growth and vitality of the U.S. and global economies in the 21st century.

"Locke’s work as Commerce Secretary and his experience as Governor of Washington State will prove invaluable to this post and help to foster and build on the important U.S.-China relationship.

"The Forum urges member of the Senate to move for swift confirmation of Secretary Locke." 

The Financial Services Forum is an economic and financial policy organization comprised of 20 chief executive officers of the largest and most diversified financial institutions with business operations in the United States. The Forum’s purpose is to promote policies that enhance savings and investment in the United States, and that ensure an open, competitive, and sound financial services marketplace

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