Political Quotes

“the suspense regarding this particular vote is long over, but the date on the effect and implications of PNTR in China is really just beginning. My rationale for supporting PNTR differs in some respects from my colleagues, who have mostly emphasized the positive impact on our economy and exports, and it relates to our ability to change the face of China--not just economically, but in terms of improving human rights, labor standards, and environmental protections, and in ensuring the rule of law. My genuine, and I think realistic, hope is that WTO accession becomes a means for improving the most repressive aspects of Chinese society, eventually permitting our two nations to embrace, in a sincere way, the same cause of global security and peace. It will take a concentrated effort by the next President, however, to institute a policy that uses WTO as a cudgel to aid those who have been repressed, incarcerated, and persecuted in China. I would submit that we need to keep the faith with those brave Chinese who have risked their lives in the name of freedom--at Tiananmen and elsewhere--as China adapts its economy to the rules required of every WTO member. Like the President, I believe the choice between economic rights and human rights, between economic security and national security, is a false choice.”