Secretary Defence special guest at 'Airshow China-2012'

Secretary Defence and Urban Development Gotabaya Rajapaksa was among the special invitees at the opening ceremony of the 9th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai in South China's Guangdong Province today (13th November 2012).

Secretary Defence is attending the 'Airshow China' on a special invitation extended by China. He is currently in mainland China leading a delegation on an official visit. The inauguration ceremony was attended by a number of the country's top leaders. More than four hundred thousand local and foreign visitors are expected to visit this international exposition.

China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition (namely Airshow China) is the only international aerospace trade show in China that is endorsed by the Chinese central government. It features the display of real-size products, trade talks, technological exchange and flying display. Since 1996, the show has been successfully held in Zhuhai in every two year for eight sessions. Airshow China 2012 will go on till 18th November.

Airshow China is an influential and the most respected show in China for aviation and aerospace industries. It offers a vibrant opportunity to the exhibitors to demonstrate civil aviation, spaceflight, military aviation and defence technology (land, air and sea), components, equipment, materials, maintenance, repair and technical services (MRO), infrastructure, research and development, authorities, organizations and associations, training, information, services. The exhibition provides a platform for the manufacturers, service providers, state bodies and other relevant agencies to meet.

Zhuhai is appointed as the permanent host city. It features the display of real-size product, trade talks, technological exchange and flying display. Since 1996, the show has witnessed 8 successful sessions, emerging as one of the major airshows in the world. It is a gateway for international aerospace enterprises to showcase the latest products and technologies. 650 exhibitors with 80 aircraft from 39 countries and regions are taking part in this year's event.

Some of the Airshow China's regular international exhibitors include Boeing, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, SUKHOI and GE. World famous aviation enterprises such as Goodrich, Bell Helicopter, Liebherr and Eaton are also expected to attend the event. Flying displays and demonstrations by hi-tech aircraft will be a highlight of the six day event.

Courtesy: Defence