But that is not the world in which we live. We take this responsibility very seriously. Before closing, let me share some thoughts on President Clinton's very successful trip to China. I had the privilege of spending nine days with the President, and meeting with the U.S. business community in China. Those business leaders made clear to me that the President's trip was incredibly important for them and the opportunities they see in China.
China is the world's most populous nation.
It is our fifth largest trading partner. Its transition to market economics is unleashing billions of dollars in consumer demand. That's why he made his historic visit to China over the past two weeks. As a result of China's engagement with the United States and the rest of the world, we are beginning to see signs of progress. This is an important first step that we have been seeking from China for 15 years.