Walz's China Ties: A Complex History
An Overview of Walz's Ties to China
Tim Walz, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, has a long history with China. He taught in the country and has visited around 30 times. While he has been critical of China's human rights record, he has also praised its economic development.
Early Life and Career
Walz was born in 1964 and grew up in a small town in Minnesota. After graduating from high school, he joined the Army and served for four years. He then earned a degree in geography from the University of Minnesota.
After college, Walz worked as a high school geography teacher. In 1996, he was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, where he served for 12 years.
Trips to China
Walz first visited China in 1999 as part of a delegation of state legislators. He has since visited the country around 30 times, including trips to Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities.
During his trips, Walz has met with Chinese officials, business leaders, and students. He has also given speeches on topics such as education, trade, and climate change.
Criticism of China
Walz has been critical of China's human rights record. In 2011, he co-sponsored a resolution in the Minnesota House of Representatives that condemned China's crackdown on dissent.
Walz has also criticized China's trade policies. In 2018, he said that China was "not playing by the rules" of the global trading system.
Praise for China
Despite his criticism, Walz has also praised China's economic development. In 2015, he said that China had "lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty."
Walz has also praised China's efforts to combat climate change. In 2017, he said that China was "a leader" in the fight against climate change.
Conclusion
Tim Walz's ties to China are complex and multifaceted. He has been critical of the country's human rights record and trade policies, but he has also praised its economic development and efforts to combat climate change.
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