[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 95 (Wednesday, June 30, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S7964]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RETIREMENT OF JAMES R. SASSER AS AMBASSADOR TO CHINA

 Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I rise today to express my 
thanks and appreciation to Ambassador James Sasser for the excellent 
job he has done as United States ambassador to China. After more than 
three years of dedicated service, Ambassador Sasser will be stepping 
down from his position.
  Ambassador Sasser served during an interesting, often strenuous, 
period of U.S.-China relations. Drawing on his experiences as a 
distinguished three term United States Senator and member of the 
Foreign Relations Committee, he worked tirelessly to ensure that the 
United States remained engaged with China to promote stability, 
openness, and prosperity in that country. Even Henry Kissinger, who 
initially expressed misgivings about Ambassador Sasser's appointment, 
recently remarked, ``I have known no American ambassador who has done a 
better or more passionate job on Sino-U.S. relations than Ambassador 
Sasser.''
  Even during the bad times, when relations soured, Ambassador Sasser 
has maintained a high level of communication with Chinese leaders and 
provided a calm and steady influence. He recognized that no single 
issue can make or break U.S.-China relations and that open and frank 
dialogue is essential to promoting American values, especially those in 
the area of human rights.
  Though he served with distinction for more than three years, perhaps 
Ambassador Sasser's finest hour came only a few weeks ago. After the 
accidental bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade, tens of 
thousands of angry protesters gathered in front of the American embassy 
in Beijing and hurled bricks and rocks at the building. The situation 
was dangerously close to spinning out of control and the lives of those 
inside the embassy were potentially in danger. Rather than seek cover 
in a safer place, Ambassador Sasser stayed.
  Near the end of his service, he provided us with a lasting image of 
poise, strength, and courage. His actions were indeed inspiring to 
those that were with him in Beijing and also to those of us who were 
watching as the events unfolded on television. He represented the 
finest of Americans who serve their country in embassies and consulates 
around the world--he was a diplomat who would not give up his post.
  Again, I congratulate Ambassador Sasser for a job well done and wish 
him the best for his future endeavors.

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