The Boeing 777-200LR worldliner, the world's longest-range commercial airplane, was officially named "Zheng He" Tuesday at Beijing's Capital International Airport during a ceremony to commemorate the seven incredible voyages by the great Chinese navigator and explorer Zheng He. 

This year marks the 600th anniversary of Zheng He's first voyage and is being celebrated with a series of official commemorations. The achievements of Zheng He are believed to represent a major step forward by bringing people from the ends of the earth closer together.

Although varying in time and space, Zheng He's sailboats and the Boeing 777-200LR similarly utilize state-of-the-art technologies. Boeing has dedicated the Beijing arrival of the airplane to Zheng He on its latest stop on the 777-200LR "Going the Distance" world tour.

Six centuries ago, Zheng He pushed the physical limits of navigation beyond what the world thought possible. His greatest achievement was to bring so many people, countries, cultures and economies together. Zheng He's name is synonymous with exploration,human ingenuity, and the spirit of friendship and international exchange, said Nicole Piasecki, executive vice president, business strategy and marketing of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Lin Zuyi from the Steering Committee said, "Six centuries ago, our great navigator Zheng He of the Ming Dynasty started his first voyage, and successfully accomplished seven incredible voyages in the following 28 years. This was a marvelous event in the history of mankind to explore the world and chart the sea."

Lin said it is extremely meaningful for Boeing to name its newest model "Zheng He", and its world tour "Going the Distance".

"We believe that Zheng He's reputation will be reinforced through the naming of the airplane and its world tour. The airplane tour will also bring our wish for friendship, peace, and development to the world, to let the world know Zheng He, China, and Boeing," Lin said.

The tour which began in Canada last month will visit more than 20 cities through August. The 777-200LR, capable of connecting virtually any two cities in the world non-stop, is the fifth 777 model. In service it can carry 301 passengers and baggage up to 17,445 kilometers, a non-stop distance roughly Beijing to Seattle and back. Three airlines have so far ordered or announced commitments for the 777-200LR.

(Xinhua News Agency June 29, 2005)