TRADE COMMISSIONER ON FACT-FINDING VISIT TO AIRBUS
Brussels, 16 December 2004 - Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson made a fact-finding trip to the Airbus production facility in Toulouse, France. The Commissioner toured assembly lines for the company’s A380 airliner. He also met with Airbus senior management, including chief executive officer Noël Forgeard. Speaking to journalists Mr Mandelson said that the purpose of the visit had been "fact-finding". Asked about the dispute between Airbus and American competitor Boeing, Mr Mandelson said that "there is an issue of false perception on the American side. Just because Airbus is a formidable competitor does not mean that it is unfairly subsidised. The world market is big enough for two strong successful competitive companies". Questioned on next steps in the Airbus-boeing dispute Mr Mandelson said that on the question of negotiation or litigation the Eu was "ready to negotiate but fully prepared to defend ourselves in the Wto if so challenged". Mr Mandelson said: "negotiation is possible and viable. But it requires good will from both sides. I am ready for that; I hope the Americans are too". Suggesting the possibility of resumed talks in January, Mr Mandelson added that negotiations on support to the aircraft industry would only be acceptable if they could produce a new agreement that was "comprehensive, transparent and enforceable".
