(Clearwisdom.net)
August 12, 2002
Dear Mrs. (name omitted to avoid Chinese embassy's harrassment):
I want to thank you for contacting me about the deplorable treatment of Falun Gong community in the People's Republic of China. I share your concerns about the worsening conditions for the practitioners of Falun Gong.
Over the years, the Congress has repeatedly exposed the concern about the deplorable human rights conditions in China. I have joined in these efforts during my service in the Senate to ensure that this matter receives the appropriate attention of the international community. As you have known, the government of China has outlawed the practice of Falun Gong, imprisoned many followers and persecuted group leaders. The Chinese government continues to deny systematically to members of Falun Gong basic and internationally-recognized rights and freedoms. As one who shares your concerns about this matter, I have contacted the Department of State on several occasions to urge that our government continue to convey to Chinese authorities the concern with which we view this situation. In light of your comments, I have again contacted the appropriate officials at the Department of State to share with them your concerns about the worsening conditions for practitioners of Falun Gong. As soon as I receive a response, I shall be certain to let you know.
In Congressional action, I want to be certain you knew that the House of Representatives recently approved House Concurrent Resolution 188. This measure, which expresses the sense of the Congress that the Chinese government should cease its persecution of Falun Gong practitioners, has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, of which I am a member. This resolution encourages the United States government to use every appropriate forum to urge the government of China to release from detention Falun Gong followers, end the cruel and inhumane treatment of all prisoners of conscience, and to allow Falun Gong members to pursue their personal beliefs. Additionally, this legislation calls on the United States government to investigate allegations of illegal harassment by the Chinese government of Falun Gong practitioners residing within the United States. You may be certain I will keep your comments in mind should the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, who sets the Committee's agenda, allow for consideration of this legislation during the 107th Congress.
I appreciate having the benefit of your views about this important matter. I hope you will not hesitate to contact me about any other issues of interest or concern to you.
With best regards,
Sincerely,
Paul Sabanes
United States Senator
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