February 26, 1979
Page 3184
Mr. MUSKIE. Mr. President, I would like to speak in favor of Senate confirmation of Leonard Woodcock as U.S. Ambassador to the People's Republic of China.
Leonard Woodcock and I have been good friends for many years. We worked together on the development of the Clean Air Act of 1970 when he was president of the United Auto Workers. While we at times disagreed on a number of the issues involved at the time, I quickly learned to respect his commitment to protecting and promoting the interests of the workers he represented.
On balance, many of our views have been similar. I have the highest respect for his ability and judgment.
In his capacity as Chief of the U.S. Liaison Office in Peking since 1977, Mr. Woodcock has built an impressive record. He has developed an excellent rapport with the government officials of the People's Republic of China. As we embark upon formal relations with the PRC, it is crucial that the United States have a representative who has earned the respect and credibility of the Chinese Government officials. Leonard Woodcock is that person.
Many feel that Ambassador Woodcock's confirmation should be held up until the Senate has voted on the legislation assuring the continuation of United States-Taiwan relations on an informal basis. I disagree strongly. We are talking about two distinct issues. One is recognition of the People's Republic of China. The other is what to do about our future relations with Taiwan.
The President has a right to select Ambassadors to those governments we recognize, and the Senate has a constitutional responsibility to advise and consent with respect to those nominations. Tying these two issues together would be seeking to block the President in the exercise of his constitutional duty. If the Senate takes issue with Mr. Woodcock's qualifications, that is another matter. But I think many of my colleagues would join me in agreeing that Mr. Woodcock is most qualified for this ambassadorship.
The Senate is also well aware that we are working within a tight schedule, since on March 1, the United States and the People's Republic of China have agreed to exchange diplomatic missions by this date. I urge that the Senate confirm Mr. Woodcock's nomination without further delay.