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Media statement
For immediate release
Monday, 17 March 2008

Dunne urges Govt to stand up to China

UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne today urged the Government to take advantage of its privileged relationship with the Chinese leadership to urge them to respect human rights in Tibet.

“Emotional calls for New Zealand to abandon its negotiations for a free trade agreement with China are a classic case of cutting off your nose to spite your face,” he said.

“New Zealand’s long-term interests are best served by maintaining a close relationship with Asia’s rising world superpower, but that does not mean we have to kow-tow to Beijing.

“Because we are close to the Chinese Government, New Zealand is in an excellent position to point out clearly that economic advantage for every nation on earth relies on free people, free to think for themselves and organise their own lives.

“Last year, I had the privilege of hosting the Dalai Lama at a Parliamentary reception because I believe in the rights of free peoples everywhere and I urge the Government to adopt a similar attitude,” said Mr Dunne.

ENDS

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