Some local governments have infringed upon the legitimate rights and
interests of the people, and social conflicts have subsequently occurred,
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said in Beijing yesterday.
The premier noted that more problems and conflicts have appeared in the
process of land requisition by the government, the demolition of old houses and
relevant resettlement, and corporate restructuring in recent years when China
has experienced fast economic growth.
The premier called on governments and institutions at all levels to properly
deal with such conflicts and protect the legal rights and interests of the
people.
In addition, education should be reinforced to guide the peopleto express
their requests through legal channels and lawful means, Wen said.
The premier reaffirmed that every citizen of China enjoys the freedom of
speech and publication, and that such a right must be realized in line with the
law.
Wen made the remarks while meeting with the press following the closing of
the annual session of the National People's Congress, China's parliament.
