Congressional-Executive Commission on China

Hearing: "The Impact of the Olympic Games on Human Rights and the Rule of Law in China"
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
2:30 pm -- B-318 Rayburn

Opening Statement - Rep. Ed Royce

I thank the Chairmen for calling this hearing. This is my first Congress serving on the Commission, and look forward to contributing to its work.

The Olympic Games have shown a light on Beijing. It will soon be a spotlight. Many have come to view China's hosting of the Games as key leverage in pushing for greater transparency, press freedom and human rights. That we should; while keeping a realistic view. As Secretary Rice said this week, let's not "get carried away with what listening to Dvorak is going to do in North Korea." The same can be said of the Olympics in Beijing. The Games will come and go quickly. It is the long term impact we are most interested in.

For instance, it was announced today that sensitive of its image leading up to the Games, China will resume its human rights dialogue with the United States. That's positive. Yet, we've heard this commitment before. We need to make sure that this isn't an empty promise that disappears after the closing ceremonies.

I'd also like to use this opportunity to raise an issue with the Commission that has been brought to my attention by humanitarians working on behalf of North Korean refugees inside China. I understand that there are a number of North Korean refugees in China under UNHCR protection, yet China has refused to issue them exit visas unless UNHCR agrees not to process any more asylum seekers until after the Beijing Olympics. I understand that China's policy is undermining UNHCR's ability to bring additional refugees into protection. Mr. Chairman, this is unacceptable. These refugees could be quickly resettled in third countries. I hope that this is an issue that the Commission can further explore.

Thank you.

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