U.S. Relations With the People's Republic of China (2008)

The White House

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
August 6, 2008

President Bush Participates in Joint Press Availability with President Lee Myung-Bak of the Republic of Korea

Blue House

11:05 A.M. (Local)

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Q: Thank you both. To President Bush, China's crackdown on human rights is drawing intense scrutiny. People are being harassed and jailed just for speaking their mind -- trying to speak their mind. I know you say that you speak candidly with President Hu about this, but with all eyes on Beijing and the world watching, I'd like to ask you directly, what do you think of how China treats its people?

And, President Lee, I'd like to ask you -- you noted progress in the six-party talks. Do you think that North Korea will go along with verification of its nuclear programs? For people who think that this is just another go-round, why will this time be any different?

PRESIDENT BUSH: I've been meeting with Chinese leaders now for seven and a half years; my message has been the same: You should not fear religious people in your society -- as a matter of fact, religious people will make your society a better place -- that you ought to welcome people being able to express their minds. And to the extent that people aren't able to do that and people aren't able to worship freely is -- you know, I think is a mistake. And I explained it to him every single time.

And the reason I'm going to the Olympics is twofold: one, to show my respect for the people of China; and two, to cheer on the U.S. team. And by the way, the order ought to be reversed as to why I may -- went. I hope our team wins as many gold medals as possible; and if not win gold, silver; and if not silver, bronze.

And this is an athletic event. But it's also an opportunity to say to the Chinese people, we respect your traditions, we respect your history. And as I said many times, I don't need the Olympics as an opportunity to express my views about religious freedom, since I have been doing it since I've been the President.

[ ...Intervening Text... ]

END

11:30 A.M. (Local)