John Joseph Moakley: “Mr. Speaker, I want to make two things clear at the beginning of this debate. First of all, the people's Republic of…”

“Mr. Speaker, I want to make two things clear at the beginning of this debate. First of all, the people's Republic of China has one of the worst human rights records in the world. The unconscionable mistreatment of the Chinese citizens is completely abhorrent. And we, the United States of America, need to do absolutely everything we can to change it. Second, most-favored-nation status is not special treatment. Most-favored-nation trading status is the status this country accords to 181 countries, nearly every country in the world. Only seven nations are not granted MFN trade status with the United States. Since February 1, 1980, China has received MFN status under the 1974 Trade Act. The particulars of this law, the so-called Jackson-Vanik amendment, requires nonmarket economies--or communist countries--to have their trade status reconsidered each year. Jackson-Vanik passed in 1974 and is based entirely on an outdated cold war strategy--that was put into effect 22 years ago, Mr. Speaker. Today, Communism continues to crumble around the globe. Each time a country embraces democracy it is thanks entirely to our diplomatic efforts. And we shouldn't stop now. Because, Mr. Speaker, one quarter of the world's population live in China--1.2 billion people. And very single one of them deserves their chance at freedom and democracy.”