Clinton Urges China Trade Deal

President Clinton says America has a "once in a generation" opportunity to help open up China.

And he's warning congressional rejection of his China trade deal would be a for both the United States' economy and its world leadership role.

Clinton spoke on Thursday before the Business Council, an association of Chief Executive Officers from American companies. The president used the speech to urge Congress to approve permanent trade ties to China. Such ties are part of a deal that would let Beijing join the World Trade Organization. Clinton believes that bringing China into the World Trade Organization will open a growing market to American workers.

Clinton acknowledges he faces an uphill battle with lawmakers in Congress.

Administration officials are seeking an early vote, fearing the issue will get bogged down in election-year politics. But so far, the earliest Senate GOP leaders have offered is July.