Bush annoys Chinese with human rights speech

China News.Net
Thursday 7th August, 2008

China has hit back at US President George Bush for his criticism of Chinese religious and human rights.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has said it opposes President Bush's interference in its internal affairs.

A spokesman said: 'The Chinese people enjoy religious freedom according to law. With regards to differences between China and the United States on rights and religious issues, we have always advocated that the two sides should carry out dialogue and exchanges on the basis of equality and mutual respect.'

The spokesman also said the ministry would be willing to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the United States, to properly handle differences and sensitive issues.

The Chinese statement was in response to a speech by Mr Bush earlier in the day in Bangkok in which he repeatedly highlighted Washington's 'deep concerns over religious freedom and human rights' in China.

It came at the same time as President Bush's arrival in the Chinese capital Beijing for the opening of the Olympic Games

Have your say on this story