California governor’s China trip criticized for prioritizing climate change over human rights
(gov.ca.gov)
During his visit to China, California governor Gavin Newsom faced criticism for his focus on climate change rather than addressing human rights abuses. Anna Kwok, the executive director of the Hong Kong Democracy Council, revealed that Newsom refused to meet with Hong Konger and Chinese dissidents before and after his trip. Kwok’s testimony before a congressional panel shed light on the governor’s failure to confront Chinese Communist Party officials over human rights issues.
Kwok’s attempts to secure meetings with Newsom were declined, with the reason given that the governor was “too busy for us.” This raised concerns that Newsom’s high-profile visit to China disregarded the country’s human rights atrocities and instead emphasized climate change. The trip was organized by the California-China Climate Institute at UC Berkeley, which has extensive ties with CCP front groups.
Kwok also highlighted the violent assaults on Hong Konger, Tibetan, and Chinese dissidents by pro-CCP protesters during the recent Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in San Francisco. Despite these incidents, the governor’s office did not provide any comment.
Transnational Repression and Lack of Protection
Kwok’s testimony focused on the CCP’s ”transnational repression” of dissidents and criticized the failure of U.S. and local law enforcement to protect anti-CCP protesters during the APEC meeting. She expressed concern that the violence could escalate to kidnappings or killings if the U.S. government does not take action.
Multiple dissidents were brutally attacked by pro-CCP counterprotesters at APEC, with some sustaining serious injuries and requiring hospitalization. Kwok emphasized that the Chinese government feels emboldened to carry out such acts on American soil due to the lack of consequences and insufficient law enforcement capabilities.
Similar incidents of violence were reported by other anti-CCP protesters, including the beating of Tibetan college students by Chinese men near the San Francisco airport.
Lack of Response and CCP Influence
Despite the widely broadcasted nature of the pro-CCP protesters’ attacks, California’s leaders remained silent throughout the APEC summit and its aftermath. This silence raised concerns about the influence of the Chinese Communist Party in California.
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, who aims to succeed Newsom as governor, delivered a keynote address at the China-California Business Forum, which was cohosted by China’s consulate-general in Los Angeles. Additionally, meetings between CCP influence group representatives and Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass and state treasurer Fiona Ma further highlighted the CCP’s presence in California.
These incidents, along with the employment of a suspected Chinese spy in Senator Dianne Feinstein’s office and connections forged with California Democrats, including Rep. Eric Swalwell, underscore the need for investigation and action against CCP influence.
Why was Governor Newsom’s decision to visit China during the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Massacre seen as controversial?
His, Newsom failed to acknowledge these incidents and focused solely on climate change cooperation between California and China. This has led to accusations that the governor prioritized economic interests over human rights concerns.
Furthermore, the timing of Newsom’s visit was seen as controversial. It coincided with the 31st anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Massacre, a tragic event in which the Chinese government brutally suppressed pro-democracy protests. The governor’s decision to ignore this significant historical moment was met with sharp criticism from human rights activists and organizations.
By overlooking human rights abuses and refusing to engage with dissidents, Newsom missed a crucial opportunity to advocate for democratic values and press for improvements in China’s human rights record. As the governor of a state known for its commitment to progressive policies and the protection of human rights, Newsom’s silence on these issues was deeply disappointing and inconsistent with California’s values.
Defenders of Newsom argue that addressing climate change is a global priority and that his focus on this issue during his visit was justified. They point to the fact that China is the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases and that its cooperation is crucial in combating climate change. While it is true that climate change is a pressing issue, it does not justify turning a blind eye to human rights violations.
It is essential to recognize that climate change and human rights are not mutually exclusive. Both issues require urgent attention and concerted efforts. By engaging with China on climate change, Newsom could have used his position to raise human rights concerns and push for reforms. The governor had the opportunity to demonstrate leadership and promote a comprehensive approach that addresses both the environmental and human rights challenges we face.
Newsom’s decision to prioritize climate change over human rights sends a troubling message to the international community. It gives the impression that economic interests and political alliances matter more than fundamental values and human dignity. This undermines not only the fight for human rights in China but also the credibility of California as a champion for social justice and equality.
In the future, it is crucial for political leaders like Governor Newsom to consider the broader implications of their actions and prioritize human rights alongside other global issues. Climate change is undeniably important, but it must not come at the expense of human rights and basic freedoms. Only through a balanced and principled approach can we effectively address the challenges of our time and uphold the values that are at the core of a just and sustainable world.
As Governor Newsom returns from his trip, it is imperative that he acknowledges the valid concerns raised regarding his focus on climate change over human rights. It is a chance for him to reflect on his choices and commit to a more comprehensive and principled approach in the future. The world is watching, and California expects nothing less from its leaders.
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