I tried to explain that diverse American voices exist on almost any subject. The Chinese are proud that they pay their dues on time to all international organizations, and seem to be preparing for entry into the World Trade Organization. Considerable changes are obvious since our travels in China in 1981. A relatively free economic system has transformed the lives of Chinese people. We saw this in every village and farm community.
Citizens are more free to move from one place to another.
By 1978, he knew of only 200 believers, with no churches or Bibles. Foreign missionary activity is not permitted and local congregations have to register, but the pastor said there were no restrictions on his words or actions, and he is free to seek new members and is having good success. Although the Communist Party retains much of its influence, many non-party members have been chosen as village leaders in relatively free village elections, held every three years since 1987. The Carter Center and other Western NGOs have observed these contests. The nation has been opened to outside interests and influence, with almost all areas of China now welcoming foreigners.