The Prime Minister

Copenhagen, the 16^th March 2001

Dear XXX [name omitted],

Thank you for your email of 20^th May 2000 about the conditions in China. I regret the late answer, but I do think it is important that I reply to everyone who writes to me.

My visit to China is comprised of a very broad range of issues, both political and economic. Also, the human rights issue is in my conversation with the Chinese leaders. Human rights are a natural part of our political dialogue with China. More Danish-Chinese cooperation has been established on the improvement of human rights.

As you know, Denmark also is an active participant in the EU's [European Union's] human rights dialogue with China. As to this dialogue, there is nothing hidden in terms of the EU's critical attitude towards some aspects of the human rights situation in China.

We will study your material in detail. I am sure that the material will be a useful contribution to the current contact with the Chinese authorities, bilaterally as well as via the EU.

With kind regards,

Poul Nyrup Rasmussen