President Obama encouraged China to improve human rights on Monday, April 30. Obama explained that doing so would strengthen China as a nation, according to The New York Times.

However, Obama remained silent on the issue of dissident Chen Guangcheng who escaped house arrest last week and is reportedly in the protection of the American embassy in Beijing. Obama declined any discussion of press reports about Guangcheng but did explain why the administration was pushing China on human rights.

“Every time we meet with China, the issue of human rights comes up,” Obama said in an interview with The New York Times.

Obama elaborated on the issue at a White House press conference.

“It is our belief that not only is that the right thing to do, because it comports with our belief in freedom and human rights, but also because we actually think China will be stronger as it opens up and liberalizes its own system,” Obama.

A diplomatic crisis has emerged between the United States and China as the countries deliberate over Guangcheng’s future.

Chinese officials report Guangcheng to be located in the American Embassy, but the Obama administration refuses to comment while negotiations continue.