California 'proud of relationship with China'

Despite escalating tensions at the federal level, some officials from California said the US-China trade conflict is hurting the economy in the southern part of the state, and they expressed the desire for continuing ties with China.

"It's important, particularly at this time, to remind people that California is open to China, and California wants to be cooperative with China. California wants to continue to have cultural ties and trade ties with China," said Anthony Rendon, speaker of the California state Assembly, on Sept 26.

Rendon, who represents the 63rd District, in southeastern Los Angeles County, said the twin ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, major gateways for US-Asia trade, are both close to his district and that trade conflicts are especially harmful for California because its economy is heavily dependent on international trade.