More on Tibet: I applaud Jim Sensenbrenner!

by bert

That Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner made a trip is not unexpected. He's known for junkets.

But some might be surprised to hear the congressman talk about his March voyage, which made a swing through South Asia. Sensenbrenner pays respect to the Dalai Lama, unloads on the blameworthy Chinese, and mentions Democratic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi without malice. Wow. Just wow.

During the course of the trip, I had the opportunity to experience one of
the most unforgettable experiences of my life - the privilege of meeting with
His Holiness the Dalai Lama, head of state and spiritual leader of Tibet. The meeting provided the delegation with the opportunity to have a frank and comprehensive discussion about the plight of the Tibetan people in their constant struggle for independence from the government of China. . .

The actions by the Chinese government represent one of the most severe human rights violations that has occurred this year. Considering that the US prides itself on being a leader on questions of human rights, I’m surprised that our State Department recently removed China from its list of top ten human rights violators. How can we sit by idly while the Chinese beat up and torture innocent Tibetans?

It is for these reasons that I was pleased to be a part of a press conference earlier this week attended by the members of the March congressional delegation. Led once again by Speaker Pelosi, we took this opportunity to express our disappointment and displeasure toward the Chinese government’s actions, particularly in light of the upcoming Summer Olympic Games to be held in Beijing.

It might seem to be surprising that such a stalwart Republican also takes a shot at the State Department. But Sensenbrenner has walked out of step with the Bush White House on other things (but not the stuff that matters such as the Iraq War and the misnamed Patriot Act. In this case Sensenbrenner's strong words show up how tepid President Bush has been on this outrage.

By the way, you can see Sensenbrenner with the Dalai Lama and Pelosi in this CNN report.