Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Bush Readies Salvo on China's Rights Record

President's speech tomorrow will express 'deep concern,' US' 'firm opposition'

By Sam Biddle,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 6, 2008 4:08 PM CDT

(Newser) – President Bush will urge the Chinese government toward greater openness and civil freedom, according to excerpts from a speech he’s scheduled give tomorrow in Thailand, the New York Times reports. Bush will keep his criticism mild, not wishing to use his visit to the Olympics to blast Beijing on its human-rights record—as some groups have wished.

“I have spoken clearly, candidly, and consistently with China’s leaders about our deep concerns over religious freedom and human rights,” the text reads. “America stands in firm opposition to China’s detention of political dissidents, human rights advocates, and religious activists. … We speak out for a free press, freedom of assembly, and labor rights not to antagonize China’s leaders but because trusting its people with greater freedom is the only way for China to develop its full potential.”

President Bush will give a speech tomorrow urging China to improve its stance on human rights.
President Bush will give a speech tomorrow urging China to improve its stance on human rights.   (AP Photo)
President Bush will give a speech tomorrow urging China to improve its stance on human rights.
President Bush will give a speech tomorrow urging China to improve its stance on human rights.   (AP Photo)
President Bush, accompanied by Thailand's Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, signs a guest book today in Bangkok, where he's stopping ahead of his visit to Beijing for the opening Olympic ceremonies.
President Bush, accompanied by Thailand's Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, signs a guest book today in Bangkok, where he's stopping ahead of his visit to Beijing for the opening Olympic ceremonies.   (AP Photo)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Be the first to comment on this story.

More Newser Stories

Bush: 'Deep Concerns' on Rights in China

Bush Meets 5 China Dissidents Ahead of Games

Olympic Boycott Is a 'Cop-Out': Bush Adviser

Clinton to Bush: Skip Olympics

House Speaker Calls on Bush to Snub Olympic Ceremonies


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne