Blue Star Line signs Titanic II MOU with Avic and Deltamarin
Blue Star Line Pty Ltd Chairman Clive Palmer today announced Blue Star Line, Deltamarin Ltd and AVIC Kaixin (Beijing) Ship Industry Co Ltd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) appointing AVIC as its latest Titanic II project partner, the company said in its press release.
AVIC will represent Blue Star Line in the promotion of the Titanic II project and coordination of Titanic II sponsors from mainland China.
Mr Palmer said in 2013 AVIC was ranked 212 among Fortune Global 500 companies and the MOU represents an opportunity for China to promote itself to the world via Titanic II.
He said the appointment of AVIC represents Blue Star Line’s confidence in China, as AVIC Group is one of the largest industrial groups authorised and managed by the People’s Republic of China Central Government.
“I would like to welcome AVIC to the Titanic II project,” Mr Palmer said.
“AVIC will assist in promoting the Titanic II and shortlisting sponsors from mainland China on behalf of Blue Star Line.”
“This is a great opportunity for China to showcase its products and promote its artisans and industries to the world.”
Dr Diao Weicheng, Chairman AVIC International Maritime Holdings Ltd, said it is a coup to have the Titanic II built in China.
“I am sure Blue Star Line is well prepared for the project, the world market is well prepared for the project and people the world over are looking forward to seeing Titanic II,” Dr Weicheng said.
“AVIC and Deltamarin will cooperate with Blue Star Line on this project (and) we are confident Titanic II will be a story of success.”
In April, 2012, Mr Palmer commissioned CSC Jinling Shipyard to build and coordinate the construction of Titanic II in China and Deltamarin was later appointed to undertake the preliminary works prior to CSC Jinling commencing construction of the passenger liner.
“The first project development phase has been completed,” Mr Palmer said.
“Currently the focus is on the evaluation and the project master plan development and more information will be available once this phase is completed.
“Titanic II is scheduled to be launched from its construction base in China in 2018, before her maiden passenger voyage retracing its original journey from Southampton to New York.”