Beijing Slams U.S. Stance on Persecution

By The Associated Press | The New York Times
13 June 2006

BEIJING (AP) -- China's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said a resolution by U.S. lawmakers condemning Beijing for allegedly stepping up religious persecution was a ''groundless accusation'' that interfered in China's internal affairs.

The House of Representatives on Monday approved the resolution condemning China for rising persecution of religious believers.

The resolution ''constitutes a gross interference in China's internal affairs,'' said Jiang Yu, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman. ''We express strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition.''

Jiang said the passing of the resolution was a ''groundless accusation and attack against China's religious and human rights.''

China maintains tight control over all religions. Those who practice Falun Gong, a banned spiritual movement, or attend underground Protestant or Catholic churches routinely face detention, harassment and sometimes imprisonment.

''The Chinese government protects the freedom of religious beliefs in accordance with the law,'' Jiang said.