Expressing Support For Freedom in Hong Kong

EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR FREEDOM IN HONG KONG -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 15, 2004)

Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, the results of the elections in Hong Kong on September 12 make two things clear: The people of Hong Kong overwhelmingly support the pro-democracy movement, and the Chinese government has created an electoral system intended to ensure that that support cannot be translated into political control.

In the months leading up to the election, the Chinese government engaged in a systematic crackdown to deny the people of Hong Kong the right to choose their own leaders and to suppress freedom of expression. In April, Beijing issued a new "interpretation" of Hong Kong's Basic Law, which serves as the territory's constitution, to prevent direct elections of Hong Kong's next leader in 2007 and for all lawmakers in 2008. As H. Res. 667 concludes, that result is inconsistent with international agreement, and the United States should take a strong position in favor of true democracy in Hong Kong.

The United States-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992 codified the understanding of the United States that Hong Kong would have a degree of autonomy from the People's Republic of China. After reversion, it was expected that this autonomy would be a catalyst for the development in Hong Kong of political institutions and procedures that would reflect the will of the people of Hong Kong, regardless of whether they were consistent with the views of government leaders in Beijing. The PRC, however, has thwarted these efforts at every turn.

Beijing has created a climate of political fear in Hong Kong through well-documented intimidation of the media and efforts to challenge the patriotism of pro-democracy supporters. In March, three of Hong Kong's leading broadcasters had to resign their positions after receiving death threats and having their businesses vandalized because of their criticism of the Chinese government. Throughout the year, pro-democracy lawmakers and activists have also suffered threats and vandalism. Hong Kong's delegate to Beijing stepped down from his position saying he was powerless to effect change.

The Chinese government's campaign to crack down on freedom in Hong Kong will only succeed in shining a spotlight on the courage and leadership of Hong Kong's democratic movement. The United States must stand solidly with the people of Hong Kong and their desire for democracy.

Reminding Beijing of its obligations under previously-signed agreements must be our constant message. Tepid remarks by Bush Administration officials are not a sufficient response to protect the nascent democracy in Hong Kong. President Bush should not hesitate to define the U.S.-China relationship in terms of the willingness of the Chinese government to discharge the commitments contained in those agreements.

U.S. policy toward Hong Kong should be consistent with the provisions of the U.S.-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992 that require autonomy and empower the President to halt existing agreements with Hong Kong or take other steps if he determines that Beijing is interfering unduly in Hong Kong's affairs.

H. Res. 667 conveys that message in a clear and forceful manner, and deserves the support of this House.