Press Release

Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Meets with China’s Minister of Commerce Chen Deming in Beijing

WASHINGTON—U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke met with China’s Minister of Commerce Chen Deming in Beijing today. It was the second meeting between Minister Chen and Secretary Locke.

Secretary Locke met with Minister Chen for approximately 90 minutes. They had a productive dialogue about shared priorities and issues of mutual concern. They agreed on the importance of building a positive and cooperative relationship that strengthens trade and creates jobs in the United States and China. Secretary Locke also discussed challenges faced by American companies seeking to do business in China. In this difficult economic environment, the Secretary encouraged China to avoid implementing protectionist measures and focus its efforts on stimulating domestic demand. He also noted the U.S. Government's support for a U.S. Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai Expo.

The Secretary, joined by Energy Secretary Steven Chu, is on a four-day visit to China to highlight the tremendous potential for mutually beneficial relationships in the clean energy sector.