LETTERS: EMERSON SUPPORTS NTR FOR CHINA

To the editor:

On July 22, U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson supported continuing normal trade relations (NTR) with China. It was a tough vote for many House members, but it represents an important step in ensuring American leadership on issues of peace and security. Engagement with the Chinese is the only way to help influence the progress toward China's becoming a more open society.

NTR is not a special privilege. It is the normal tariff treatment the United States grants to almost all countries except Cuba, North Korea, Laos, Afghanistan and Vietnam. Revoking NTR would impose a $302 tax increase on the average American family, falling hardest on low-income and working households that would pay more for affordable, high-quality consumer goods such as apparel, footwear and toys. Moreover, China is a stabilizing force on two fronts in Asia. First, it is helping to avert a financial meltdown by resisting pressures to devalue its currency. Second, China has avoided involvement in the regional nuclear arms race started by India and Pakistan. Continued U.S.-China cooperation is critical to protecting American security and preserving American economic growth.

There are mutual benefits for both countries by continuing normal trade relations. Chinese consumers have access to high-quality American products which improve their lives. Chinese employees can learn how free-enterprise businesses operating, including American management techniques. American firms will continue to employ workers in secure jobs in such areas as engineering, research and development and marketing, all of which support their business in China.

Many thanks to Representative Emerson for taking a stand in favor of engagement with China.

KATHY A. BROWN, Plant Manager

Procter & Gamble Paper Products Co.

Cape Girardeau