Washington, D.C. -- Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS) commented on the contract signing between Ingalls Shipbuilding and American Classic Voyages Company at a press conference on Capitol Hill today.

American Classic has commissioned Ingalls to design and build two new cruise ships over the next five years. The first ship is expected to be delivered in 2002. The cruise ships will operate in the Hawaiian Islands.

Following is Senator Cochran's statement from the press conference:

"Thank you very much Jerry St. Pe'. You may have noticed that it is really snowing right outside the Capitol here, but the sun is shining brightly in the U.S. Capitol today. We're happy that you are all here to help celebrate this special occasion for the States of Mississippi and Hawaii. I observed one time that the state flower of Hawaii is the Hibiscus, and in Mississippi, of course, it is the Magnolia. Today I hope you will notice what a nice arrangement that makes. We are very happy to be a part of this special project and this new era, as Senator Inouye so aptly describes it. It is his leadership and the leadership of Senator Trent Lott that have made this day possible. They have taken the lead on a number of maritime industry issues and national defense issues over the years they have served in the Congress. They continue to be an inspiration through their hard work and dedication to their duty. It's a pleasure to be here to celebrate this with you today. Thank you."