Norman D. Dicks: “the decision that Congress will make today with regard to most-favored-nation status represents an important step in…”

“the decision that Congress will make today with regard to most-favored-nation status represents an important step in defining our future trading relationship with China. We are deciding today whether or not the United States will continue what I believe has been a constructive policy that encourages change with China while firmly expressing United States concern about human rights, protection of our intellectual property, and our desire to curb nuclear proliferation. For the largest private employer in my State, the Boeing Co., renewing MFN with China is absolutely critical. In the period between 1992 and 1994, Boeing recorded $5.3 billion in sales to China, representing one of the largest single positive influences in improving our balance of trade. In fact, one in every ten commercial jetliners made by the Boeing Co. during this period was sold to a customer in China. These jet sales supported 48,500 jobs in the United States for each of these years. The jobs I am speaking of are not just at Boeing facilities, but at 4,500 commercial suppliers. That is why we should continue to support MFN.”