Question: What is your position on permanent normal trade relations with China? Should trade be linked to human rights improvements in Tibet, and lessening of religious persecution by Beijing? How would your administration react if China invaded Taiwan?
Submitted from Kelly of Worcester, Massachusetts through USATODAY.com (10/18/00)
Answer from George W. Bush:
U.S. CHINA POLICY MUST HAVE CLEAR PURPOSE, STRATEGIC VISION
China is not our 'strategic partner.' But neither is it our enemy.
As I've said before, China is a competitor, to be faced without ill will and without illusions. When I am president, China will have no doubts about our power and purpose in the region. We must show American power and purpose in strong support for our Asian friends and allies -- for democratic South Korea across the Yellow Sea... for democratic Japan and the Philippines across the China seas... for democratic Australia and Thailand. This means keeping our pledge to deter aggression against the Republic of Korea, and strengthening security ties with Japan. This means expanding theater missile defenses among our allies. And this means honoring our promises to the people of Taiwan. We do not deny there is one China. But we deny the right of Beijing to impose their rule on a free people. As I've said before, we will help Taiwan to defend itself.
I favor permanent normal trade relations for China. First, it will provide American businesses and farmers access to China's growing market and narrow our trade deficit with China, which in 1998 reached nearly $60 billion. Opening up Chinese markets is good for our farmers and entrepreneurs. Second, to join the WTO, China is agreeing to live by fair trading rules. As President, I will work to ensure that American exporters get the full benefit of China's market-opening commitments. Third, as we export American goods and services into China, we will export American values, especially freedom. Trade will help expand the private sector in China and open a window to the free world for the people of China. When I am President, China will know that America's values are always part of America's agenda. Advocacy of human freedom is a fundamental commitment of our country. I believe the marketplace will help enhance an entrepreneurial class in China that will encourage freedom and increase the demand for democracy. We must always deal with China in a firm and consistent manner, but we should not turn our back to this opportunity to spread freedom.
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