America
has helped China in many ways over the years. In 1900, America’s insistence on
an “Open Door” policy prevented China from becoming colonized by European
powers. Before and during World War II, the U.S. helped China defend against Japan.
After the war, we ensured that China become one of the five permanent members
of the UN Security Council. President Nixon’s famous trip established bilateral
ties with China. After Mao’s death, the U.S. granted favorable trade terms. President
Carter gave China most-favored-nation trading status. President Reagan exempted
China from trade restrictions applying to other communist countries. President George
H. W. Bush gave China permanent normal trade relations and enabled it to join
the World Trade Organization.
China’s
tariffs should not remain almost three times higher than U.S. tariffs. China should
also stop stealing American technology and stop engaging in electronic
sabotage.
President
Trump has raised U.S. tariffs to pressure China into making its relationship with
us more equitable. He has chosen economist David Malpass as his representative for
China trade. I am familiar with Mr. Malpass and have great respect for him.
China
will eventually level the playing field. America’s new tariffs on Chinese goods,
intended to be temporary, will then come down. President Trump’s China policy
is worthwhile. He’s going about it the right way, and I believe his efforts
will pay off.
