CONGRESSMAN WU PRAISES PASSAGE OF BILL 
SUPPORTING FREEDOM & DEMOCRACY IN HONG KONG

WASHINGTON, DC (June 26, 2003) -- Congressman David Wu urged his colleagues in the House of Representatives to vote in favor of a resolution expressing support for freedom and democracy in Hong Kong.  The resolution, H. Res. 277, passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 426 to 1.

Congressman Wu's statement follows: 

"Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong support for H. Res. 277, a resolution supporting freedom and democracy in Hong Kong.

"Throughout its modern history, Hong Kong has stood as a beacon of freedom and stability.  With the Hong Kong people's ingenuity and hard work, the territory became a stable and prosperous democracy.  

"Since Hong Kong's 1997 change of status, the citizens of Hong Kong have faced the challenge of maintaining their civil liberties and democratic self-governance.  While the Basic Law guarantees Hong Kong fifty-years of self-governance and freedom, the Beijing-appointed government of Hong Kong has been working to limit freedom in the territory.  

"I strongly support the goals of H.Res. 277.  As a long-time friend and supporter of Hong Kong, I believe we must continue to support the Hong Kong people's efforts to preserve and advance the cause of freedom and democracy.  I applaud the gentleman from California (Mr. Cox) for sponsoring this resolution and I will continue to work with my colleagues to protect and advance freedom, democracy, and the rule of law in East Asia."  

Congressman David Wu is the Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.