Beijing Games spokesman dismisses accusation of China arresting so-called "dissidents"
14/7/2008 16:51
A Beijing Olympic Games spokesman today dismissed as "groundless" recent
accusation by some overseas organizations and figures that China arrested
so-called "dissidents" to ensure security of the August Games.
"To ensure the
hosting of a successful Olympic Games, and to ensure the safety of foreign
athletes and visitors, China has indeed taken a series of necessary, legitimate
and reasonable security measures. This falls in line with routines of previous
Olympic Games and major international sports events," the spokesman told Xinhua
on condition of anonymity.
"lt's unnecessary to arrest so-called 'dissidents'
for the sake of the Olympic Games. The accusation is untrue," he
said.
"Several overseas organizations and figures accuse China of arresting
some 'dissidents' for the sake of the security of the Olympic Games, and call
for release of 'dissidents' under custody. Such claims are groundless."
He
pointed out China was dedicated to enhancing and protecting human rights and
some basic freedoms, including freedom of speech.
Over the years, especially
since the start of the reform and opening-up drive in 1978, China had achieved
remarkable progress in economic and social development. The living standards of
Chinese citizens had significantly improved, he said.
The rights and freedom
enjoyed by Chinese in accordance to the law were under full protection, which
was well recognized by unbiased people in other parts of the world, the
spokesman said.
China is a country under the rule of law, and it is clearly
stated in the Chinese Constitution that citizens enjoy freedom of speech,
publication, gathering, association and demonstration, he noted.
Because of
this, no one would receive punishment just because of their speech, he
said.
Some people received penalties because they had undertaken illegal
activities that violated Chinese laws, and their criminal activities had been
confirmed through strict legal procedure, the spokesman said.
Several
overseas organizations alleged some Chinese "were put into custody because they
had expressed different political opinions," and this allegation was untrue, he
added.
Xinhua
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