Monday, September 3, 2001

Trade and human rights are expected to feature prominently in discussions between the Government and a delegation led by the Chinese Premier, Mr Zhu Rongji, which has arrived in Ireland for a four-day visit.

[...] Along with its EU partners, Ireland is engaged in dialogue with China on political issues, including human rights. It is understood the Chinese have indicated that they would have no objection to discussing human rights issues during their visit.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Cowen, said that Ireland had a "mature political relationship" with China and the Government believed that a policy of engagement rather than confrontation on human rights issues would bring about "the necessary progress which we would like to see".

[...]The Chinese Premier reviewed a guard of honour before departing for the State guest house at Farmleigh in the Phoenix Park. A small group of supporters of imprisoned members of the Falun Gong spiritual movement protested outside Farmleigh.

Security for the visit is tight.

The Taoiseach and Mr Zhu will hold talks this morning at Farmleigh and there will be a brief joint press conference.

[...] A Fine Gael MEP, Mr John Cushnahan, who has "expert" status in the European Parliament on matters relating to China and Hong Kong, warned yesterday that trade issues must not be allowed to take precedence over human rights. He said: "China has an appalling human rights record and the Taoiseach must use the opportunity of the meeting with the Chinese Premier to make our views known."

[...] http://www.ireland.com/newspaper/front/2001/0903/fro1.htm