WASHINGTON, DC – Engage China, a coalition of eleven financial services trade associations united in support of high-level engagement with China with an emphasis on greater market-opening reform and financial services modernization in China, released the following statement on the confirmation of Jon Huntsman, Jr. as ambassador to China.

“Engage China commends the U.S. Senate for its swift confirmation of Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr. as U.S. ambassador to China. Governor Huntsman possesses extensive experience and a deep understanding of the region and its issues.

“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.

“Governor Huntsman is the ideal leader to foster and grow this important partnership. His previous work as a deputy trade ambassador, U.S. ambassador to Singapore, and his experiences working and living in Asia will prove invaluable to this post.

“In his new role, Engage China respectfully urges, Mr. Huntsman to push for greater market-opening reforms in China. As nations around the globe contemplate regulatory reforms stemming from the financial crisis, it is sensible for China to pursue financial services modernization. Such reform and modernization will help China achieve its economic goals, including building a more services-based, consumer-driven economy, while also benefiting the economies of other nations.

“Members of the Engage China coalition look forward to working with Governor Huntsman in his new role as U.S. ambassador to China.”