Religious freedom in China

Although the Presidential apology helped put aside the disconcerting protocol lapse, the protester succeeded in amplifying an important discord between Bush and Hu—the question of religious freedom in China.

Although religious freedom has always been an important issue for the United States, Bush, a strong believer, has elevated it to the top of the political agenda with China.

The Christian right in the US, which has expansive clout with the Republican Party and the White House, would not spare the Administration if it is seen as soft-pedaling the issue of religious freedom in China.

Last year when he went to China, Bush made it a point to attend a Sunday Church service in Beijing to underline American complaints on religious freedom for Chinese Christians and other believers.

Hu, who wanted a successful visit to Washington, was clearly prepared to address the issue—to the extent he could. Earlier this month, the Chinese organised the first-ever international religious conference on Buddhism.

The Chinese officials were also putting out the word that Beijing is ready to make peace with Roman Catholics. Beijing is now offering to establish diplomatic ties with the Vatican, if it breaks relations with Taiwan.

Although Hu has sought to inject flexibility into Chinese policies on religion, the Falun Gong is an entirely different matter and beyond the pale of discourse at home or abroad.

The Communist Party of China despises the Falun Gong and is prepared to crush what it sees as a dangerous cult by all possible means. But the Falun Gong, whose followers focus on breathing exercises and meditation, is no pushover.

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