Hu Jintao Obama promises to advance human rights
This is the biggest statement of commitment to democracy that has made public a president of China
Antonio Cano | Washington 19/01/2011
After hesitation and doubts that gave tension and excitement to a time perhaps transcendent lel Hu Jintao on Wednesday in the White House greater commitment to democracy and human rights has been public ever heard a president of China. If it is not just a diplomatic ploy to get around once committed, this is a step that may prove crucial in the process of recognition of China as a world power and its promotion to the leadership of universal reference.
"We will continue our efforts to improve the lives of the Chinese and improving democracy and the rule of law ... We have made tremendous progress in human rights, as recognized around the world, but much more needs to be done," said Hu , who said that whenever he met with U.S. President Barack Obama, eight in total, have discussed human rights and has no objection to continue making, where "from the base of non-interference." Not to mention particularly the United States, added that, in human rights, had to admit that China has to "learn from other countries."
Hu said China is "committed and defends the universality of human rights", but warned that, when judging about compliance, it was necessary to take into account "the different national circumstances." He referred to the history of China, the volume and diversity of its population, and suggested that in this matter, as in others, the Chinese authorities move at their own pace, taking into account the complexities and demands of its society.
The human rights situation in China, the most fundamental issue remains on a bilateral relationship, moreover, is entering the era of what Obama described as "friendly competition" had been previously addressed by the U.S. president a press conference that began in chaos and the worst predictions and concluded as a great event.
Obama said, before the first question of an American journalist, that although you must understand that "China is a different system, a different culture with a different story too, the United States understands human rights with a need that transcends cultures" and as a benefit to all countries, including China. "
The same reporter's question included a reference to Hu to answer whether he thought the United States was entitled to address the human rights situation in China. Suddenly, a fault him like unexplained simultaneous translation system, it is unclear what part attributable, generated a disorder in which Hu sidestepped his part of the question. However, when he turn to the American press, were two questions by country, "the reporter recalled that Chinese president had not addressed the question of the colleague who preceded him and invited him to do so.
Hu apologized, said he had not understood who turned to him and said that at no time had sought to evade the question. For the answer given then it seems to be true. Hu had quite prepared her speech, made a very categorical and acceptable to where everyone can judge
To some extent the confusion is understandable because Hu will not be recalled before participating in any other press conference, at least to Western journalists. On this occasion agreed to do so, or because he meant what he said, for reasons of domestic policy-or possibly because he was forced by their American hosts.
Barack Obama, who lost his press conference when he visited Beijing in 2009, was now under great pressure to address directly the issue of human rights. It is something the Nobel Peace Prize and was it a concern about the treatment of the laureate in 2010, the Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo, imprisoned in their country is receiving.
As an example of the climate surrounding the visit of Hu, the principal leaders of Congress, both Republican and Democrat, declined the invitation to attend last night at a gala dinner offered the White House in honor of the distinguished guest. When asked about his absence, Hu, with a surprising sense of humor, replied that Obama was better able to interpret the gestures of Congress.
It is unlikely that this incident and all the controversy about human rights that can ruin a visit historic. In addition to addressing the issue once that commitment, Hu stressed that China and the U.S. are "basing the foundation for collaboration and joint development of long-term" from "mutual respect and mutual benefit."
The Chinese president expressed support for increasing contacts and collaboration with the United States at all levels. Proposed to "establish a pattern of communication and dialogue at the highest level," intensify and accelerate "the exchange between the militaries" and also facilitate the direct relationship between the companies, "especially from person to person dialogue between young people."
Obama, meanwhile, said they have no fear that China continue its development for many years. "The rise of China is good for America and good for the world," he said.
Obama and Hu dined in private on Tuesday , attended an official dinner on Wednesday and talked for several hours throughout the day. They talked about all matters relating to international security from North Korea to terrorism and climate change, and all confessed to be basically in agreement, with slight differences. The visit of four days, continues today and Hu will hold a very committed interview with members of Congress.
Hu Jintao Obama promises to advance human rights York Times
