President Hu Jintao and Bill Gates to Discuss Microsoft’s Commitment to the Chinese Software Industry

REDMOND, Wash. — April 18, 2006 — Microsoft Corp. is pleased to welcome Chinese President Hu Jintao to its Redmond campus today as part of the Chinese delegation’s initial stop in the president’s first official visit to Seattle. The president and a delegation of government and industry leaders will arrive in Seattle today to meet with Washington state and local government officials, as well as local business and community leaders.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome President Hu to the state of Washington and to Microsoft,” said Bill Gates, chairman and chief software architect of Microsoft. “During the last 10 years, China’s information technology industry has emerged as a global center for growth and innovation. We’re encouraged by China’s efforts to strengthen intellectual property protection, which will provide the foundation for continued expansion of the IT industry in China. We look forward to working with the Chinese government and partner companies in China to create new opportunities for growth.”

During his visit to the campus, President Hu and senior government officials will meet with Gates and other Microsoft executives. Among the expected topics of discussion will be Microsoft’s commitment to helping further the development of a strong software industry in China, continued cooperation with Chinese universities and schools, support for China-based research and development, and training and alliances with Chinese companies. The president will also tour the Microsoft® Home of the Future.

“Microsoft is committed to growing together with China’s IT industry, helping local Chinese customers develop strong, sustainable IT infrastructures and a clear road map for future development,” said Tim Chen, corporate vice president and chief executive officer of Microsoft Greater China Region. “With the recently announced cooperative engagement agreements with computer manufacturers to pre-load genuine Windows® operating systems, we see even greater opportunities in China and the chance to build long-lasting relationships with customers and partners in China.”

Microsoft has a full range of operations in China, including research and development, basic research, technical support, and sales and marketing organizations. Microsoft has established an extensive network of partners in China with over 3,000 partners, including authorized distributors, dealers, retailers, and solution and service providers.

Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire will host President Hu and his delegation at an official dinner Tuesday evening, at Bill and Melinda Gates’ private residence. They will be joined by other elected officials and civic and business leaders from Washington state.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

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