FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 26, 1999

For more information call: Xiao Qiang, (212) 239-4495

U.N. Commission to examine China's human rights violations

Human Rights in China welcomes the decision today by the U.S. government to introduce a resolution on China's human rights situation at the U.N. Commission on Human Rights.

HRIC praises the U.S. government for following up on its assessment that the Chinese human rights situation has been deteriorating in the last year.

The seriousness of human rights violations in China warrants specific action from the Commission on Human Rights. This decision sends a clear signal that the mandate of the Commission can and should be respected: no country, big or small, should escape U.N. scrutiny. HRIC urges the U.S. government to actively seek support from the other Commission members in order to ensure passage of the resolution.

"We are grateful to President Clinton and his administration for taking action. HRIC is convinced that this decision will empower Chinese people who are fighting for their basic rights despite the ongoing repression.

This important decision lays the foundation for an open and improved relationship between China and the United States based on a mutual respect for human rights," said HRIC's Executive Director Xiao Qiang.

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is an international and independent non-for-profit organization with offices in New York and Hong Kong, which monitors the human rights situation in China.

For further information during the session call (41 22) 732 80 10 - fax: (41 22) 732 85 95.0

Visit our website at: www.hrichina.org

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Human Rights in China, Inc.

350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 3309

New York, NY 10118, U.S.A.

Tel: 212-239-4495 Fax: 212-239-2561

http://www.HRIChina.org

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