US ambassador to raise rights concerns with China

WASHINGTON — Gary Locke, the nominee to be the next US ambassador to China, promised he would be a forceful advocate for human rights and US businesses while still seeking cooperation with Beijing.Locke, the commerce secretary who would be the first Chinese-American ambassador to Beijing, enjoyed an unusually friendly reception at his Senate hearing, with lawmakers saying he was virtually sure to win confirmation.Locke said he would use his personal story to reach out to ordinary Chinese about the United States, but not shy away from sensitive issues, including his "vigorous disagreement" with Beijing's leaders over human rights."The protection and the promotion of liberty and freedom are fundamental tenets of US foreign policy, and if confirmed, I will clearly and firmly advocate for upholding universal rights in China," Locke said.In more detailed prepared remarks, Locke pointed to leading Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, whose social commentary had been largely tolerated but who was seized as Beijing mounts its most sweeping crackdown on dissent in years."The detention of artist and activist Ai Weiwei raises many issues about China's commitment to building a society based on the rule of law," Locke wrote, pledging to raise individual cases at the highest levels in China.Locke, pointing to his work in President Barack Obama's cabinet, said he would also fight for US businesses by pressing for protection of intellectual property and for the right of foreign firms to compete for government contracts.Under questioning by senators, Locke said he would also put a top priority on non-proliferation. He believed tensions over North Korea are making China realize "it has to step up to defuse the situation to make sure that no further provocations occur.""China can, definitely, and must do more," Locke said on North Korea. China is the main ally of the reclusive regime, whose leader Kim Jong-Il visited Beijing this week.Senators also voiced concerns about China's military strength against Taiwan and the value of its cu

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