Gates: Web must thrive in China

WASHINGTON. Microsoft Corp. Chairman Bill Gates said yesterday the Internet needs to thrive in China as an engine of free speech and described official online censorship by Beijing as “very limited.’’

Gates said the Internet is subject to different kinds of censorship around the world but has proved a consistent success at promoting openness and the exchange of ideas.

“You’ve got to decide: Do you want to obey the laws of the countries you’re in, or not? If not, you may not end up doing business there,” Gates said.