Boeing Secures Major Orders Despite Controversy

**Boeing Secures Major Orders in Middle East Amid Controversy Over Gift Plane** Washington, May 14 (AP) — During President Donald Trump's diplomatic visit to the Middle East, Boeing secured significant contracts, highlighting a prosperous period for the American aerospace company. The company announced a landmark USD 96 billion order with Qatar, which includes their 787 and 777X jets, marking the largest order for 787s and wide-body aircraft in Boeing’s history. The announcement came just a day after Boeing revealed a separate deal with a Saudi Arabian company for 20 737-8 jets, with options for 10 more. President Trump praised the development, saying, “Get those planes out there.” This surge in Boeing's fortunes follows reports that China lifted restrictions earlier this week, allowing its airlines to resume receiving Boeing planes—a development arising from a recent trade agreement between China and the US. However, Boeing's presence in the Middle East wasn't without controversy. President Trump faced criticism over his decision to accept a luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet as a gift from Qatar's ruling family. This drew criticism from various quarters, including Democrats, ethics experts, and some Republicans, who expressed concerns over potential security risks, high retrofit costs, and possible breaches of constitutional provisions regarding foreign gifts. Trump provided no urgent national security justification for accepting this aircraft rather than waiting for the new Air Force One jets, already in progress. Boeing has faced significant challenges since the crashes of two 737 Max jets in 2018 and 2019, which claimed 346 lives. The company has since experienced a series of setbacks, including a panel detachment incident on a 737 Max earlier this year and a machinist strike last year that disrupted production and deliveries. Despite these hurdles, Boeing's stock prices have recently risen to their highest level in over a year, marking a fifth consecutive day of gains for the company headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. (AP) GRS GRS