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SHANGHAI (AP) -- President Barack Obama is telling Chinese students that unrestricted Internet access in the United States is a source of strength and an open exchange of information makes all countries stronger.

Obama on Monday told a town hall-style meeting that societies benefit when citizens are able to go online, spread information and share opinions. Obama says that discussions hold government accountable and help citizens think for themselves.

Obama says he opposes limits on Internet and communications models such as Twitter.

Obama half-joked that sometimes he wished information didn't flow so freely in the United States so he wouldn't have to hear criticism of his policies. He says, though, that the critics make him a better leader and the democracy stronger because Obama examines his actions.

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