I know the president elect, I know there will be dialogue, but the path to progress will take more than words.

There are things China can do that will greatly enhance our relationship and mutual prosperity: open the markets to US goods, combat intellectual property theft, respect freedom of navigation and keep the promises it made to the people of Hong Kong….one country two systems.

And among all the other steps China could take there would be no greater gesture of good will in the short term to the United States and the wider world than to free Jimmy Lai.

I met with Jimmy Lai at the white house in 2019… he’s facing trial today in Hong Kong. There’s some controversy about what we spoke about so let me say on the record in front of leaders he did not ask for any action against Hong Kong or China. he simply came to urge speak out on behalf of the people of Hong Kong.

These measures would not only respect American interests but also demonstrate the CCP’s willingness to embrace a better and more peaceful future built on fairness, respect and reciprocity.

So, why speak about these matters to you? Well the Bible says “blessed are the peacemakers.” To the Chinese companies represented here today: you have a unique role to play. You can be champions of building bridges between our nations. Encourage your government to take those steps I mentioned earlier.

To the Chinese-American and American companies in this room: I urge you to stand strong on your values, let your trading partners in China and elsewhere know what your standards are. You expect them to respect private property rights and your own interests to be respected.

And to everyone gathered here: let us remember that the burden is on our shoulders, particularly us Americans. In proverbs “to much is given much is required.” This is the moment that is either fraught with peril or filled with opportunity, and I choose to believe the latter. So for everyone gathered her today the choices we make, policies we’re applying today will shape the world of tomorrow. By standing firm for the timeless principles of freedom, we can chart a new horizon that is more peaceful and more prosperous for all.

I think it’s important for the government of China to understand that America’s decisions can never be separated from our belief that we are “endowed by (our) Creator with certain unalienable rights…that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

And Americans will do well to remember that China is an ancient civilization with a great people, cherished tradition, family, and achievement and faith. In fact as we stand here today I’m told there are more Chinese Christians in church on any given Sunday than there are members of the Communist Party. We have much more in common than could ever divide us.

America will never abandon our values, nor will we impose our values on others, but rather will inspire. But we should never hesitate to make access to the world’s largest economy contingent upon respect for the basic principles of fair play and the rule of law. It is an honor to address you tonight, so let me close.

I hope my words tonight have conveyed respect for the people of China, firmness and resolve and hope, there is an ancient Chinese proverb that reads, “Men see only the present, but Heaven sees the future.” As we go forward, let us pursue a future of peace and prosperity with resolve and faith. Faith in ideals we cherish and our place in the world as a beacon of hope for all mankind as Americans. Faith in the enduring capacity of people all over the world to aspire to those principles. And faith that Heaven sees the future – and that by God’s grace, it will be a future in which America, China move beyond our present disagreements; when our nations forge a new relationship grounded in mutual respect; when the rising tide of prosperity truly lifts all nations; and we can finally stand together, proudly, as partners and friends. I believe America will continue to stand strong as the new administration takes office in just a few short weeks, with one handed extended in friendship and the other resting comfortably on the arsenal of democracy we will still hope that China will reach back, with deeds and on words to build a future based in shared prosperity and mutual respect. So help us God.

https://advancingamericanfreedom.com/mike-pences-2024-china-general-chamber-of-commerce-speech/

VPPence speaking highly of PDJT and requesting getting prisoners released…