Crowley Chairs US-China Interparliamentary Exchange Talks in Washington

Press Release

Crowley Chairs US-China Interparliamentary Exchange Talks in Washington

Today, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, appointed US Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-NY) to serve as the chairman of the US-China Interparliamentary Exchange. As Chair, Rep. Crowley led the ninth round of discussions between members of the US House and China's National People's Congress being held on Capitol Hill, which focused on human rights and bilateral economic issues.

"This exchange represents the US Congress' commitment to positively engaging the Chinese and the advancement on key issues important to the United States and our allies throughout the world," said Crowley, member of the Committees on Foreign Affairs and Ways and Means. "In order for China to be recognized as a responsible global citizen, it must make progress in improving the treatment of its citizens, increasing market access for foreign companies and goods, especially those from the United States, and strengthening environmental standards. I welcome this opportunity granted to me by Speaker Pelosi to lead these important discussions and foster more understanding between the United States and China."

"A substantive dialogue between official representatives of the U.S. and Chinese governments is crucial not just for our two countries, but for the entire world," said Speaker Pelosi. "The U.S.-China Interparliamentary Exchange is a forum to help build a mutually beneficial relationship that promotes human rights and contributes to global prosperity. With his experience on trade and international issues, I know Congressman Crowley will provide the necessary leadership and enthusiasm for a constructive dialogue between our governments."

At today's US-China Interparliamentary Exchange meetings, Rep. Crowley stressed the need for China to respect the universal human rights of their people, in addition to find ways for stronger environmental standards to be imposed on Chinese industries with the goal of diminishing carbon emissions and the production of greenhouse gases.

With strong US concerns over Chinese currency manipulation and government subsidies on export products, members of the US Congress addressed the impact of these practices on US industry and consumer prices. The meetings also provided a forum calling on China to narrow the trade gap with the United States by allowing more US goods and services into the country.

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