Text of Obama naming Huntsman China ambassador

Remarks by President Obama in nominating Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. as Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, as provided by The White House Office of the Press Secretary:

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning, everybody. I am here to announce today the distinguished public servant I'm appointing as our nation's new ambassador to the People's Republic of China. I'm making this appointment mindful of its extraordinary significance. Given the breadth of issues at stake in our relationship with China, this ambassadorship is as important as any in the world — because the United States will best be able to deal effectively with global challenges in the 21st century by working in concert with China.

There are few countries in the world with a past so rich or a future so full of possibility as China. With a vast population, a growing economy, and far-reaching influence, China will have a crucial role in confronting all the major challenges that face Asia and the world in the years ahead.

And that's why we're working with the government of China to stem the financial crisis that's devastated economies around the world and help lay a foundation for sustainable growth and lasting prosperity on both sides of the Pacific. That's why I've spoken with Chinese President Hu Jintao about a number of regional threats, including the situations in North Korea and Pakistan. And that's why we will continue working together with China on a whole host of global challenges — ranging from energy and climate change to public health; from nuclear non-proliferation to terrorism and violent extremism.

I believe there's much to be gained from a closer, working relationship with China. But improved relations with China will require candor and open discussion about those issues where we don't always agree, such as human rights and democracy and free speech. And it will require that each of our nations play by the rules in open and honest competition.

And that's why this ambassadorship takes on such importance. I can think of no one better suited to take on this assignment than the Governor of the great state of Utah, Jon Huntsman.

When I asked Jon to accept this critical post, I knew it would require a sacrifice on the part of his family, and I want to thank Mary Kaye and all of their children for making this possible. I knew it would require a sacrifice from Jon — who will be giving up a seat as a popular governor, having just been reelected to a second term. And I hope the good people of Utah will forgive me and understand how proud they should be of their governor for his willingness to answer his nation's call.