Rep. Nancy Pelosi today issued the following statement on the trial and sentencing of Chinese dissident and student leader Wang Dan to eleven years in prison.
"The trial and sentencing of Wang Dan makes a mockery of justice and raises serious questions about the Chinese government's commitment to implementing the rule of law. This action is further evidence of the Chinese government's ever-increasing crackdown on dissent and its determination to deny freedom of speech and association to any person or group daring to criticize the government publicly.
Once again, China's authoritarian government is demonstrating its disregard for its own Constitution and for international norms and standards. Wang Dan's harsh prison sentence and recent repressive actions taken against other Chinese dissidents by the Chinese government are particularly troubling in light of Secretary Christopher's visit to Beijing next month and preparations for a possible Presidential Summit. A stable foundation for a strong U.S.-China relationship can not be built on the backs of those fighting for democratic reform in China.
I call upon President Clinton to do all in his power for the immediate and unconditional release of Wang Dan, Wei Jingsheng, and other prisoners of conscience in China."
