text: "It is why they express such deep and persistent reservations about establishing closer links with China, a country that does not respect the rule of law, or basic freedoms for artists, journalists, ethnic minorities and religious believers."
  
  To be fair, disrespect for the rule of law, the media, and minorities were campaign pledges made by the president elect. We are going to have to get used to doing business with despotic regimes one way or another.