The People’s Daily published an article quoting Chinese religious leaders negating the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom’s “2010 Annual Report on International Religious Freedom,” published on April 29. The religious freedom report criticized China’s policy on religion and stated that China’s ban of Falun Gong is religious persecution.

The Chinese response included that the U.S. applies a “double standards” to support extremists and terrorist actions. It recommended that the U.S. pay more attention to its own religious situation instead of pointing fingers at other countries. It also stated that China’s ban on Falun Gong is to protect citizen’s basic human rights and religious freedom. The Tibetan upheaval in 2008 was planned and promoted by the Dalai Lama. Buddhists in China resolutely support the government and take necessary action against those who commit violent crimes (in Tibet).

Source: People’s Daily, May 8, 2010
http://paper.people.com.cn/rmrbhwb/html/2010-05/08/content_511155.htm

Global Times recently published an editorial on nuclear transparency. The editorial commented on the recent U.S. disclosure of its nuclear arsenal size, as well as the fact that the U.S. called for transparency with China’s name mentioned. Global Times believes this makes China “look morally shorter” and China should stay alert on U.S. intent. The article suggests that China’s strategic interest is to maintain a limited nuclear deterrence. Since China’s early warning capabilities are weak, it is in China’s best interest not to offer too much transparency. The editorial believes U.S. lip service does not qualify the United States to have the moral high ground to ask China for anything. 

Source: Global Times, May 7, 2010
http://opinion.huanqiu.com/roll/2010-05/806039.html