Frank Pallone: “As we go through the annual ritual of extending most-favored-nation trading status for China, yet another reason for…”

“As we go through the annual ritual of extending most-favored-nation trading status for China, yet another reason for denying MFN has come to light: China has become the major contributor to weapons proliferation and instability in Asia, with Pakistan being one of the major recipients of Chinese nuclear technology and delivery systems. As was reported in the media last week, there is strong evidence from our own intelligence agencies that Pakistan has deployed nuclear-capable Chinese M-11 missiles, obtained through a secretive transfers that both countries have tried to cover up. Yet, incredibly, despite the overwhelming evidence, the administration seems unwilling to impose the tough economics that both nations clearly deserve. Earlier this year, we failed to punish China or Pakistan for the transfer of 5,000 ring magnets, devices used for the production of weapons-grade enriched uranium. We also went ahead with the transfer of $368 million in United States conventional weapons to Pakistan. Mr. Speaker, it's time to get tough with China, Pakistan, and other nations contributing to the spread of nuclear weapons. Denying MFN to China is an effective way to show that we're serious about nonproliferation.”