Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.China dismissed human rights protests Tuesday as President Jiang Zemin began a round of royal welcomes and official hospitality on his first full day in Britain.
China dismissed human rights protests Tuesday as President Jiang Zemin began a round of royal welcomes and official hospitality on his first full day in Britain.
A state banquet was planned at Buckingham Palace Tuesday night, and Jiang was scheduled to confer with Prime Minister Tony Blair at No. 10 Downing St. on Thursday.
Two people were arrested for breach of the peace Monday night as human rights groups, including the Free Tibet campaign and Amnesty International, organized a candlelight vigil outside Jiang's hotel. The demonstration, which Scotland Yard said involved about 20 people, ended late Monday.
'We feel it is totally inappropriate for the resident to be entertained by the queen and (Prime Minister) Tony Blair while the human rights issue is brushed under the carpet,' said Alison Reynolds of the Free Tibet campaign.
In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue said human rights protests could harm relations between the two countries.
'A small number of hostile elements want to stir up protests during President Jiang's visit to Britain and other European countries. It would undermine relations between China and those countries,' she said, but predicted the British government would 'take action to ensure the success of the visit.'
Later the Chinese President left Hyde Park Hotel in a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce, accompanied by the Princess Royal.
A small crowd of well-wishers gathered on the pavement outside the hotel to watch the pair leave and there was no sign of any protesters.
A red carpet was laid from the hotel's back entrance to the waiting Rolls-Royce.
Asked what he thought of Great Britain as he made his way to the vehicle Mr Jiang replied: 'Very good'.
The Princess Royal, wearing a red coat and hat, arrived at the hotel at about 12.10pm before leaving with the president twenty minutes later en-route for Horse Guards Parade.
Jiang is the first Chinese head of state to visit Britain. He will also visit France, Portugal, Morocco, Algeria and Saudi Arabia on his two-week itinerary.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments