WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) lauded the swift confirmation of Senator Max Baucus to be the U.S. Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China with the following statement:

“As Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, I congratulate Max Baucus on his confirmation as the U.S. Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China.  With over three decades of dedicated service to this country, there’s no one who understands the United States’ national interests better than Ambassador Baucus. It has been my privilege to serve with him in the Senate and as a member of the Senate Finance Committee.

“From trade and economic issues to proliferation and security concerns, as well as human rights and environmental concerns, we must have a strong relationship with China built on trust in order to successfully tackle the most pressing issues of our day.  A key element in the Administration’s Asia Rebalance policy is the pursuit of a positive, cooperative, and comprehensive relationship with China.  As China continues to play a larger role in global affairs, our Subcommittee looks forward to working closely with Ambassador Baucus and the Department of State to expand areas of cooperation in the U.S.-China bilateral relationship, and remain firm in promoting universal values, including human rights.”