During the 30 years since, America and China have exchanged many handshakes of friendship and commerce. And as we have had more contact with each other, the citizens of both countries have gradually learned more about each other. It was my honor to visit China in 1975. Some of you were not even born then. It shows how old I am. And a lot has changed in your country since then. China has made amazing progress in openness and enterprise and economic freedom. And this progress previews China’s great potential. China has joined the World Trade Organization, and as you live up to its obligations, they inevitably will bring changes to Chinese legal system. A modern China will have a consistent rule of law to govern commerce and secure the rights of its people. The new China you generation is building will need the profound wisdom of your traditions. The lure of materialism challenges society in our country—and in many successful countries. All these changes will lead to a stronger, more confident China, a China that can astonish and enrich the world, a China that you generation will help create. This is one of the most exciting times in the history of your country, a time when even the grandest hopes seem in your reach. My nation offers you our respect and our friendship.