Press Release
April 9, 2008
Congresswoman Susan Davis Calls on China to End Crackdown in Tibet
House resolution urges dialogue with Dalai Lama
WASHINGTON – The House of Representatives, with the strong support of Congresswoman Susan Davis, called on China end its crackdown on non-violent protesters in Tibet and engage in direct dialogue with the Dalai Lama. The House made its sentiments known with the approval of H. Res. 1077 on a vote of 413-1.
“As the world’s spotlight is on China with the upcoming Olympic Games, these actions by China have cast a shadow over the Games,” said Davis. “It’s important for the world to convey its concern with the latest developments and urge China to take a different approach - an approach that includes dialogue and respects civil and human rights.”
In March, on the 49th Anniversary of an historic uprising against Chinese rule of Tibet, Tibetan monks and nuns were blocked by Chinese forces from engaging in peaceful demonstrations. As a result, protests spread throughout the Tibetan region.
The Chinese government engaged in a severe crackdown of the protesters resulting casualties and the arrests of thousands.
Dialogue between Chinese officials and representatives of the Dalai Lama in an attempt to diffuse the situation has yielded no results. Many world leaders, including President Bush and now the House, have urged the Chinese government to engage in direct talks with the Dalai Lama.
The House resolution also calls for the release of Tibetans imprisoned and for free and unfettered access to the region by international observers and press.