Patrick Leahy actually said...

There are so many things that need to be done in this impoverished country still recovering from an earthquake.

I agree with you that it is a good symbol when you land, but I suspect the symbol is even more yourself.

Can we do more to engage with the Chinese on the whole range of issues, from climate change to human rights, piracy of intellectual property...

We were witnessing the power of citizens to force their governments to begin a transition to democracy.