William R. Richardson: “I rise in support of the renewal of China's most-favored-nation [MFN] status. I am deeply concerned about China's human…”

“I rise in support of the renewal of China's most-favored-nation [MFN] status. I am deeply concerned about China's human rights record, but I feel the only way to work toward improving human rights in China is to have an open dialogue between our two countries. Ending most-favored-nation status is an empty gesture that would sever political and economic relations between Washington and Beijing and ensure no improvement in human rights. Now is a crucial time in Chinese history. We must support China's emerging market. We can help China to continue to make progress toward an open market and adoption of international norms and laws, or we can isolate China and watch as they become an increasingly destructive force in the world community. In truth, trade teaches the skills which are crucial to an open market and a free society. How can we expect the Chinese to adopt our democratic ideals if we dissolve our political relationship? Ending most-favored-nation status means a loss of U.S. jobs and increased expenses for American families who rely on inexpensive Chinese products. Over 170,000 Americans jobs are dependent on trade with China and hundreds of thousands more and indirectly supported by our trade relationship. Chinese retaliation would endanger these jobs and would exclude American companies and workers from one of world's most dynamic markets.”