From June 13 to 19, 2005, the 46th International Paris Air Show was held at the Le Bourget Airport northeast of Paris. More than 2,000 exhibitors from approximately 40 countries took part in the show, setting a new record for the event. French President Mr. Jacques Chirac attended the show on is opening day and visited the Chinese stands. Approximately 35,000 professionals and the public visited the show.
China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) was the first Chinese company to participate in the Paris Air Show, in early 1985, and this year marked CGWIC’s 10th appearance at the Show. President Wang Haibo headed CGWIC’s delegation to the show. As the international commercial arm of China Aerospace and Technology Corporation (CASC), CGWIC showcased CASC’s international business capabilities, as well as the achievements and latest developments in China’s space industry. Central CGWIC exhibits were scale models of the DFH-4 communications satellite, as well as LM-2C/CTS, LM-3A, LM-3B and new-generation launch vehicles, which drew widespread attention from visitors. The French public in turn exhibited an extremely level of China-friendliness, showing great interest in new developments in China’s space industry, including lunar exploration and manned space flight.
Taking full advantage of this major international aerospace commercial exhibition platform, the recently re-organized CGWIC actively explored new commercial markets. President Wang Haibo met with senior management representatives from a range of companies including Alcatel, Ariane, SES and EADS Astrium. Detailed introductions of Chinese commercial launch services, satellite in-orbit delivery services and new developments in China’s aerospace industry were given to various guests and professionals. The air show was an ideal opportunity for China’s aerospace industry to demonstrate its capacity, explore the market, seek out opportunities for cooperation, and improve ties between international customers and the Chinese aerospace industry.