Political Quotes

“I happen to think that this will enhance China's credibility in the international community to hold this conference. Frankly, I think China would find it very difficult if the conference was not held in Beijing. I think that happens to be a stronger statement, in my opinion, than holding the conference--and certainly China would view it and interpret it as suggesting that in spite of what they have done, they are still holding this conference in this country. Mind you, Beijing was on the list as the next country in line to hold the conference. There was reluctance even at that point at the United Nations to hold that conference in Beijing for the reasons that we all know. Now, this has happened. I just frankly do not feel that it would be appropriate for this country to send our delegation there talking about the very important issues but at the same time sending the message that we are still going to talk about these issues in spite of the fact that Harry Wu is in prison.”