To Shaun Smith, Toronto, Canada

In June 1967, French president Charles de Gaulle, shouted Vive le Québec libre! during a speech from the balcony of Montreal's city hall during a state visit to Canada. In doing so, he deeply offended the federal government, and many Canadians felt he had demonstrated contempt for the sacrifice of Canadian soldiers who died on the battlefields of France in two world wars.

The current French president Sarkozy is not any better.

To answer your question of why has there not many Chinese posting here to agree with Sarkozy, it's probably the same reason why in 1967, very few non-french Canadians agreed with Charles de Gaulle.

The fact that very few people in China read English news, not mentioning TIMES, is also part of the reason.

Chad Liu, Toronto, Canada

Typically on a comment board like this there would be a mix of opinion even from within the country that is being criticized. French, Brits, Canadians, Americans, etc...--no one from any of these countries would hesitate to openly criticize their own government if they wanted to. Where are the Chinese dissenters who agree with Sarkozy? Apparently there ARE more than a few in China. Why aren't they posting here? From what I can see, there is not a single Chinese voice here that finds the methods of the Chinese government even the tiniest bit objectionable or regrettable. I guess we are seeing the PRC spin machine in action. Deflect. Deflect. Deflect.

Shaun Smith, Toronto, Canada

To Nicki from palm springs:

Rachida Dati is Franco-Moroccan and she is the Minister of Justice, one of the main ministers. Rama Yade is Secretary of State to Foreign Affairs and Human Rights and she's born in Dakar (Senegal) and a muslim.

Tom, London,

Dalton, Toronto: Can you show any evidence that can proves your opinion??

If not, please shut up about the human right of Chinese!!!

Catherine , Sichuan, China

the main Chinese problem is the lack of influance suffered by the jew finance community in the chinese area. Please compare round the world and identify such situations.

belyui, San Francisco, USA

To Nicki from palm springs:

Rama Yade is French despite being born abroad. If this example doesn't satisfy you, what about Rachida Dati? She is Franco-Moroqui (born in France and Morroqui from her parents) and is the Minister of Justice, one of the main ministers.

Tom, London,

I see the Chinese propaganda machine is out in force on the comments board! China invaded Tibet and has been trying to eradicate Tibetan culture ever since. I suppose none of you were alive when the invasion took place and I'm sure the Chinese Gov't has taught you something like China was freeing Tibet, or was invited by the Tibetans to take over, etc. So, I am not surprised that you really believe that was what happened. The rest of the world knows the real truth. And Tinnamen square gave us a blueprint of how the Chinese Gov't handles protests - kill them. You have no freedom of the press, no democracy, no freedom to dissent, no human rights. You are living in the largest prison camp in the world. When the Chinese people finally demand these freedoms, your country will be truly free and the West will rejoice with you.

Dalton, Toronto,

i am a chinese student. i really thank those people who care about our human right. yes, china has many problems, such as human right. but this time,about tibet, you are cheated by some medium. i think we should not only read CNN report, but also read chinese media report. then we can make a impartial judgement. by the way, there are many mistakes in chinese 50-70's. but now china try to make some reforms. if you really want to help chinese people, please criticize chinese government felicitous. Too much criticize and too less all harm chinese people and china's civilization course. excuse my poor english language.

student, chongqing, china

so basically the idea is............. Free Tibet or we wont send a few people to your country to run around in a circle, or throw sticks and balls around...... Man the Chinese must be quaking in their boots.

Andy b, Brighton,

very time, when we Chinese try to tell your people the truth, we only hear the reply "BRAINWASHED!!!" If that is really so, could you tell people that you are innocent of the history of tibet before 1959? (e.g. Francess Younghusband invasion of 1904). We have much more free access to news and views of fellow chinese than you think. Bullitin boards are intensively used here to freely discuss our experiences, and, we are not the chinese government's 'chumps'.

So I for one are very disappointed with the Time's coverage. Simply not reporting both sides of the story. Biased!!!

By the way, what's wrong with a country keeping peaceful life for ordinary innocent people with police protection???

maggie, chengdu,

Michel Julharat, from Marseille: I guess you did not understand my question; I asked for a French person who happens to be of African descent. Mrs.Rama Yade is not French, she was born in Africa. You still have no one? Is she a naturalized French citizen?Like the great African football
players playing for France

Nicki, palm springs, california, usa

I agree with "Olympic games and the idea of olympism is based upon friendship and mutual understanding".

I believe that Chinese people are so proud of hosting the coming Olympic Games. Tibeten issue is Chinese own business, and Chinese govenment can deal with it.

Dala lies to the world that about 140 monks and other protesters are killed by police. No evidence !!!

No monks and protesters are killed, but many innocent common people are killed in the riots. The victims' names can be listed!! Their house are burnout and damaged by the monks and protesters!!!

Please open your eyes to see the evidence.

Yuer, ChengDu, SiChuan, China

Nicky from California, you are wrong saying : "Mr. Sarkozy,name me just one African-French born in your cabinet?"
Because it is easy to reply that Mrs Rama YADE, state secretary foreign affairs French Government is african-french, born in Dakar ,Senegal. Lack of culture, Nicky !

Michel Jutharat, Marseille, France

It is sad that Sarkozy is using this as a publicity stunt... If the troubles in Tibet are as bad as we are led to believe, the IOC should step in.

Sonja, Hertfordshire,

We in Russia studied the successful Chinese experience in democratic reforms in transitional economy and have it implemented by our government. But I assume China regional policy to be not so sophisticated than Russian. In example, the Kazan region where are around 20% of people native Tatars have a lot of benefits that other regions do not have, but stability and peaceful neighborhood worth it. May be there is a chance that Tibet will be the part of China Republic? Unless it crucially search for all benefits of Democratic countries club membership. Because when economic and national interests of the region are unidirectional (remember Huntington) rarely is there a way to perform quiet and peaceful negotiations.

Alexey, Novosibirsk, Russia

Mr Sarkozy is same mainstream french people. 60% of them don't want French participation in Beijing at a time chinese government is killing monks and nuns in Tibet. France has always placed freedom of people first. priority, Even if economically growing, (growth based on people's perspiration and low wages), China remains a communist country, without any real freedom.
Since Tien An Men, nothing has changed, and information is still locked same in Russia behind the iron curtain 30 years ago. The West has no reason to go Beijing, and support their awful system. The spirit of Olympic Games is based on democracy, and it was a mistake to allow China as "organizer".

Michel Jutharat, Marseille, France

Interesting comments - but i do feel there is a lot of hypocrisy - the americans and brits in iraq and afghanistan, the french and europeans generally with their anti-non-christian sentiments, and the chinese with their so called poor "human rights record". The world needs to get a grip! It seems to me this is all a case of the pot calling the kettle black! The brits should leave Iraq and afghanistan, the Americans should change their foreign policy and perhaps have more insight to the planetary needs, and the chinese should address their internal strife!

zak, London, UK

Mr. Sarkozy should worry about France's loss of confidence in his ability to govern a great country such as France. Human rights and equality under French law? Mr. Sarkozy,name me just one African-French born in your cabinet? You are a part of NATO entourage killing innocent Afghan women, men and children to come to the defense of Tibet. What a hypocrite!

Nicki, palm springs, california, usa

Is this his trick to get himself out of trouble?
I really love the French culture, but he is disappointing.

Zhao, Chengdoo, China

Do not congratulate Sarkozy, this is not a real thread, he will not go further. I have not made my choice yet if we should boycott or not the games. All I want to say to is to the Chinese people if they can access this forum of course. Look at all the messages here from all the countries, we all have different opinions even from the same country, when we read your messages they all say the same opinion, this cannot be reality, we are not FOOLED, you should fight for your FREEDOM instead of wasting time for the olympic games.

Oliberal, toulouse, france

I just can't understand some of the posts from Chinese readers. We all agree that western colonisation was bad since every people have the right to have their own state. China rightfully challenged foreign rule, and we all agree about that. So why should Tibetans be different from the Chinese? Both people want to have their own state, where's the big deal? Saying that China has the right to invade another country just because it was subject to foreign rule is not a very smart proposition.
It really strikes that the average Chinese can't understand that Tibetans have the same rights as they do, and that means that as the Chinese have their own state the Tibetans have every right in the world to a free Tibet. I thought that this was a very simple thing to understand, I am really concerned that so many people seem to fail to understand it

Paolo, Milan,

So many Chinese apologists complain, "you do not understand China or the situation in Tibet". Censorship by the Chinese Government sees to that. We hear their government officials say not a shot was fired by their troops, then they stop us from finding out the truth. It is unbelievable the free press is denied access to verify either accounts of both sides. All leaders of a democratic countries should be cringing. Let the athletes compete, it is not their fault. But politicians should show their objections and turn up only if China begins meaningful dialogue with the Tibetans. Appeasement always backfires.

michaelbouwperson, brisbane, australia

Why is Northern Ireland being linked to this? There hasn't been trouble there for years with the exception of some paramilitaries still intimidating their local communities. However, they've been doing that for years, all throughout the Troubles. All that guff about how they were fighting for freedom for the most part was rackateering, drug dealing usually by the people and politicans pontificating about Irish freedom. NI had a referendum stating that they majority of its citizens wanted to remain part of Britain with all the advantages and disadvantages that come with it. We're oppressed. Minorities are protected by the toughest anti-discrimination legislation in Europe and people are free to practise their religion and vote for the politicans they want. A far cry from the image of an oppressed nation, under the thumb of the nasty Brits...which is what most Americans (and apparently Chinese) see us as. Rubbish! NI is a far cry from Tibet under China at the moment.

Sara, Belfast,

An EXCELLENT and gutsy chess move.

Steve Tate, dayton, OH/USA

Does China really care if Sarkozy wants to be a party pooper? Who does he think he is?

H, Aberdeen,

You are absolutely right that it's China's ever-growing position within the Global Market that get the nerve of the western countries. It is actually nothing about Tibet, Dafur and Olympic games. The rich countries are so feared of the fact that their once poor neighbour is growing stronger each day, without under the control like Japan, Korea do (U.S. base in each territory to "threaten" China) and India.

Oh, a little history is also important . When the Queen is commemorating the war, her loyal men must be so proud in remembering in how fanatically they plundered and then burnt Chinese Imperial Gardens and Palace. Those precious were displayed in London British Museum "free of charge".

UK veterans of WWII recalled helping Chinese government in fighting with "crazy terrorist militia". Ironically, the so called "crazy guerrilla" won the heart of majority and finally created the modern China! That made them embarrased and keep defaming the countries, huh?

June Lee, Birmingham, UK

I am a Tibetan, I have to say most of people in China, including our ordinary Tibetants, are against the riot and voilence happend in our homeland.
We support Chinese goverment to restore Lahsa's order.
I am a Tibetan, and I am also a citizen of China,
I bless Olympic Games in Beijing!

Adazuoma, Tibet, China

Sarkozy is making a show.
I am eager to see whether he will appear in his Chinese friends' ceremony at last,
I bet £1, that he will absolutely appear in Beijing in August.
What he worried now is not Tibet, but his wife's pictures

Jack London, Beijing, China

Bravo Sarko, wish we had a PM with balls in this country. Very sad to behold such a rusty and brittle "Iron Chancellor"

chriski, manchester, UK

I just hope our international friends here could be more open-minded, as most Chinese able to post in English here have received proper education, gained their understanding of democracy and human rights, probably even no less than ppl from developed areas. Please don't take up a superior tone when addressing Chinese problems, I myself am quite unsatisfied with our status quo here, but in the past ten years I also have witnessed progress made in some areas, though many problems still exist and have got worsen (when it come to wealth distribution, espcially). But you know what , I just can't image the scene and the aftermath when our current ruling party collapses, which might be worse than Russian 20 years ago, and former Yugoslavia was another perfect example. I, along with many of my open-minded compatriots, welcome criticism on our problems. But please, please be rational when you criticise!

Alex, Chongqing, CHINA

Do you think that isolating and embarrassing the world's next super power is a good move, or that this course of action will benefit human rights or the environment in the longterm? They (the Chinese) are catching up with the West in both regards, and should be encouraged and guided rather than rebuked and scolded....
I know which 21st Century memories of the West I would like the Chinese to have when my grand children are walking the earth....
ps. For those who are about to quote attrocities committed by the Chinese, have a think about those committed by Western powers.

Ben Rampton, London,

"As a American man I support all countrys to enforce legal laws against violences

Eleanor, Iowa, Virgina USA

As a Paris person I am angry Sarkozy is not wanting go Olympics, maybe people electing new government soon

Steve wilson, Paris, FR"

I'm going to guess "Eleanor" is not a native English speaker and isn't in the US at all. And "Steve Wilson," despite his name, could brush up on his English as well. Give my regards you guys to your Communist overlords!!!

David , Washington, DC

I find it interesting that some are asking for a boycott of the games on the basis of how Tibetans are treated. Yet when countries were asked to put pressure on China in order to influence the Sudanese government over Dafur there was very little response. Yes there should be a boycott for Dafur and for Tibet

Ann, London, UK

"Like Wallace cry in <<brave heart>>,""Freedom,Ireland!!" "

Psst. That was Scotland.

M.R., Stockport,

I didn't think that I would ever say this about a Frenchie but hats of to you old boy its good to know that there is a western leader out there with a spine, and is man enough to raise this issue at the highest possible level.
China's position within the Global Market has created this fear within the western leadership to confront them about their violation of human rights and disregard for the environment.
By not attending the opening and closing ceremonies we would be issuing a strong message to the Chinese leadership without involving the athletes directly which is extremely important; as I would think it incredibly unfair for the Athletes (regardless of whom they represent) to be dragged into this political mess.
I would urge no demand that the leaders of the world step up to this and follow Sarkosy's example and put political pressure on China and stop relying on the protestors throwing themselves in front of the torch to raise the issue in the media!!

Steve Williamson, Manchester, UK

I still can't believe France elected a great man like Sarkozy. He never ceases to amaze me. I found new love for France because of him. <3 Go France! Go Sarkozy!

Decent Person, Hagen, Germany

Chinese citizens ARE enjoying the same freedom as westerners do, why do some western media and some westerners keep saying that Chinese people have no freedom? Tibet is part of China, why do you support the splitting of a country? I seriously don't understand. Darlai fled away from China in 1959 and broke the promise he made to Chinese leaders, why is he getting support from som western countries? Tibet is an autonomous region of China, the people live on that land are Chinese. Why is this so hard for some westerners to accept while most peole in Tibet enjoy their Chinese citizenship and want to head to a better life?

Qing Lu, China, China

China is far from perfect on everything and there are still lots of room for improvement on living standards, human rights. But we are living in a country that have moved hunderds millions of people out of poverty, that we have much more freedom than our parents used to have, that there are clear signs of reform on all aspects of the soceity, economically and politically. Don't assume Chinese are stupid and being manipulated by one party. The fact that life is getting better and better for many of us living in this country is not deniable and we have our own rights to choose the way we want our countries to be managed and the speed of reform, after all, we Chinese care for our own life most than any outsiders!

On Tibet, it is a intl show of how double standards mainstream western media could be and how uncomfortable certina parts of the world feel about China's rise.

More for Chinese to reflect and learn on how to cope with this!

Kayla, beijing, China

we should support north Ireland back to Ireland, Like Wallace cry in <<brave heart>>,""Freedom,Ireland!!"
we also should boycott London oLympic Game......

Xiao, Suzhou, SIno

i agree with what Raymond said... cuz it's the same thing... Tibetans just said that they were fighting for their freedom and then set fire to stores, banks... i dont understand these RSF men, have they really been to Tibet or they re just telling thing that they imagined??? well ive been Tibet last year and i ensure u that i dont see how tibetan peoples live are different from africans or indians... they re just poor...and chinese re building railways for them arnt they?? and i ve heard that Tibetans dont want it!!! then they ve just to build it themselves but they cant cuz they dont have money or something other.... its just unbelieveble that we re just criticizing China and trust o things from Dalai and RSF... Dalai never been to Tibet for 50 years!!! how can he know what real tibetans want??

Fred, Geneva, Switzerland

"Sarkozy didn't have much sympathy for the plight of the rioterss in his own country."

Do you mean the "plight of the peaceful demonstrators" perchance? Because rioters are, like, you know, people who riot. They break things, harm other people, that kinda stuff.

Anyhoo, we should all boycot the Olympics.

Just because "other countries do it to" (the lamest excuse on the planet) doesn't mean it's right.

M.R., Stockport, UK

"As a American man I support all countrys to enforce legal laws against violences

Eleanor, Iowa, Virgina USA"

Wow! Then who's gonna enforce actions against violence taking place in Iraq, triggered by our nice great American wolrd police , huh?:)

Alex, Chongqing, CHINA

How much do you kown China?Did you see what happened in XiZang in your own eyes?I have to say you are very innocent,you kown nothing about China,this beautiful peaceful land.You have hurt us deeply.Next time you want to say something,DO YOUR HOMEWORK!!!!

Chunyan LU, Nanjing, China

i am college student
at least i can asure everybody that there was not blockout in our university.
i can freely visit to the website of bbc,cnn，afp,and so on

chou, chengdu sichuan, china

Good on you M. Sarkozy, I'm glad to see a political leader at least suggesting the possibility of doing the right thing, even if he doesn't see it through.
Another reason to move to France, other than escaping the sickening scale of 2012 Olympics lies & propaganda we are deluged with here in London.
I have nothing but scorn for the sycophants in UK politics who are only interested in their own careers and dubious Olympics-related business connections - unfortunately the once noble Olympic movement has now become a corrupted parody, having allowed itself to become a lucrative tool of governments and big business regardless of their morality.

M Hestin, London, UK

BrAVO Sarkozy.... at least one of our leaders trying to make senses of the whole situation..

To VJ China, yes every nation have their fair share of riots But we do not do handle it with excessive force. my 2 cents.

Zorden, singapore, Singapore

Don't blame Sarkozy. Don't blame Brown. Because I really doubt how much real power and influence they have got. What Sarkozy said must be the decision of his think-tank. If he were a civilian, I think he would be more than happy to go to Beijing to attend the opening ceremony in August.

Bruce, Tianjin, Sydney

"I see the Chinese people are taking full advantage or their governments decision to allow more western media access! ... Well done Guys,keep up the good work!"

This pro-Chinese post unintentionally captured exactly why Westerners react negatively towards almost everything the Chinese government does: censorship.

I find it telling that the Westerners posting here are about evenly split between those favoring China and those favoring Tibet in this argument. However, of those posting from China, I believe I read only ONE comment remotely critical of the way the Chinese government is handling the situation. That causes me to seriously question the media coverage that the Chinese are receiving on the events in Tibet.

Sorry, China, I won't be watching the Olympics here in the USA.

Jeremy, Folsom, CA, USA

Sacre bleu! I can’t think of a bigger incentive for the Chinese to continue mistreating the Tibetans than the prospect of Sarkozy carrying out his threat to stay away from the Olympics.

Parallax

Parallax, Cambridge (UK),

I will just wonder whether one could sit in a French class room with a turban or a veil ('religious symbols' - hence banned) on? There is a lot of thought and words about 'freedom' floating around here. sorry if anybody's feelings are hurt! But one does not have, otherwise,anything against a 'Free Tibet'.

V. K. K, New Delhi, India

China needs to move into the civilised world. Their human right record, and indeed animal rights is appalling. Well done Mr President. Here's hoping other countires follow.

sophie, london,

hi,Dear Sarkozy,you are escaping from the criticize from French people by this!!

Xiao, Suzhou, SIno

Bonjour from a Frenchman,

I will not comment our President's decision..;which he has not yet made about the games. No I will comment that we have now 47 comments from readers.....3 from France and a few from else where! All the rest from China.

Now I thought that there was blackout on internet from the West in China...obviously not unless all these comments come from 'authorized' Chinese !

But I have seen nothing about the fact that China wants the TV transmissions delayed by 15 to 20 seconds during the games just to be sure to be able t scrub out anything 'not correct'.

Differed transmission, this may turn out to be the major issue very soon.

Edouard, Toulouse, France

Do every French remember the riot in Paris in oct. 2005?

VJ, China, Beijing

Sarkozy didn't have much sympathy for the plight of the rioterss in his own country. Why all the sympathy for the Tibetans?

Raymond, Liverpool, UK

World leaders, please boycott the games. Join Sarkozy, show your ignorance and the world how stupid you are!

Smiley, Shanghai, China

I'm sorry to hear these words from the President. I don't think he fits the position of being president. What I want to say is, Mr. Sarkozy, it is none of your business and a lot of evidences can prove that Tibet is the land of China. Well, you have the right to boycott the opening ceremony, but your behaviour will destroy the spirit of the Olympic Game. If you don't figure out, I suggest you come back to primary school to learn world history first. By the way, don't make yourself embarass.

april, Beijing, China

If France or the West thinks that threatening China with an Olympic boycott can bring them to their knees (dialogue with Dalai Lama), they don't know how Chinese think. I would throw away the entire Olympics Games than kowtow to the West ever again. Free Tibet my foot!!

I will support China whatever they decide; and I hope the Chinese Army will increase the measures and pressure on enforcing peace in Tibet and regions where these "peaceful Buddhists" squat.

S K Lin, Hong Kong , China

As a Brit, it goes against the grain to support the French - but I fully suppport Sarkozy's suggestion to boycott the Beijing Olympics. The Tibetans didn't ask to be invaded, or for their country to be "modernised" by the Chinese, or for the infrastructure "benefits" the Chinese are "offering", and certainly didn't ask for their citizens to be subjugated under the thousands of chinese immigrants being shipped into Tibet. Go the French!

AnneZ, Dubai, UAE

First of all, he did not say he wanted to boycott the Olympics, he said if China keeps repressing violently Tibetan Demonstration and keeps ignoring negociations he WOULD then consider boycotting the Games as a likely option. And he obviously did not want to "divide" China or the Chinese People, one has to stay focus on that, no one ever wanted to "divide" China, nor did he want to jeoperdize the Games, who would want such a thing.

Joaquim, Paris, France

As a American man I support all countrys to enforce legal laws against violences

Eleanor, Iowa, Virgina USA

As a Paris person I am angry Sarkozy is not wanting go Olympics, maybe people electing new government soon

Steve wilson, Paris, FR

China will only be truly strong if it gives more freedom to its citizens. The strongest countries in the world are also the ones where the citizens have strong human rights and proper democratic governance, neither of which exist in China.
It is not a strong China that the West fears, rather we fear its collapse into chaos - as such choas could spread to the rest of Asia.

Dave, Glasgow,

If French happen the things like tibet,what would you do,president sarkozy!!!! Tibet is chinese business,not French business!!!

feng, china,

As African oppression by western country I back brave party in Beijing stopping violent splittists

Bill O'Neal, Mombasa, Africa

What a hypocrite. The same man who rushed to recognise independence of Serbia's sovereign territory, Kosovo and Metohia. However, Sarcozy is not alone playing this dirty "point colection" politics.

Zachary Raikov, Berkshire, England

I suggest that Mr Sarkozy calm down and get the report that describes what has happened in Tibet as it is.

John Shultz, jiangsu, China

Good for Sarkozy. Maybe other world leaders might actually begin to take the idea a little more seriously. Personally, I'm boycotting the Olympics completely, but at least the opening ceremonies and a discussion of boycotting them is a start.

Eric, NY, US

who do you think you are ???!!!!

David, Nanjing, China

After failurs marriage,the Sarkozy became different form the former Sarkozy , confuse with his life and his job as the leader of French .I advise Sarkozy should face psychiatrist ,before he make any decision.

Jovrav.Lee, Paris,

Dalai Lama and Osama bin Laden differ in one thing: Laden speaks what he does, and Dalai speaks against what he does.

Western media differ in how to treat them: They label Laden as a terrorist, and Dalai as a peace seeker.

Western goverments differ in how to treat them: They attacked Afghanistan right after 911, and threat to boycott Beijing Olympic after Tibet terrorists' riots.

So one obvious CONCLUSION is: we should judge by one's WORDS, NOT his ACTIONS.

RIDICULOUS. Merkel, Pelosi, Sarkozy, you're disdained.

Neo, Singapore, Singapore

Jon Anthony, in KS, USA, how can you call the riots in Lasha "non violent civil disobedience"?

Call you troop back form Iraq before condmning anyones else!

ML , Melbourne, Australia

great idea - more leaders should follow suit. seek change in Tibet by attacking the weakpoint in the armour (olympics)....hats of to Sarko. bold.

tom, tokyo,

He is not going to China, thar is fine. I wish him another enjoyable honeymoon with his wife.

ML , Melbourne, Australia

LOL

caroline, chelsea, USA

Your these from think the country how great person! You know the Tibetan?? You have gone to Tibet? You have experienced 3.14 events?? Whether you did see Dalai Lama to great nations and so on US goes begging?? Your anything did not know that do not talk nonsense! Our Tibetan does not need Dalai who that kind wags the tail goes begging! Also does not need the human who your these think oneself infallible to appraise our internal affair!
Please first manage the country the matter, in comments others! Because you do not have this qualifications!

lisa, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Regio, china

one thing i had confirmed is that France is so democratic country where people can freely smashed,robbed ,arsoned,beated anything,and will protected because of the government's constraint if not all media will dudded it as a "crackdown". if western people and meia does not have an fairly view on the basis of fact, prejudice and arrogant may be the best descriptions for you .

GQ, shanghai , china

Where is China? Does anybody here know where it is located? I do believe many people here can't proffer a correct answer because you never care to know about it, its history, its culture and its people. Pleeeeeeeeeeeese don't make any ill-informed judgments about it, okay?

Smiley, Shanghai, China

While I do have sympathies for the people of Tibet, I find it hypocritical that so many Western observers are screaming about China's "human rights record," when we're busy butchering Iraqi and Afghan civilians while trying to force Iraqi hydrocarbon laws to steal Iraq's oil.

As for vouching for Tibet's independence-- what about Northern Ireland's independence? Or, if you're an American, what about independence for the American Southwest, including California and Arizona, which after all was forcibly seized from Mexico in the Mexican-American War? Or Puerto Rico? Or Hawaii? Latinos in SW agitate for "Aztlan," a kind of modern meso-American home in the SW, and Hawaiians push for their own independence. What about the Sioux and other native Americans? They roam on tribal lands that were seized by Anglo settlers? And again, for the UK-- what about Gibraltar?

FWIW Sarkozy wasn't even hinting at a boycott here. He knows it's more complicated than that.

Moliere, San Diego, California

Is there someone can tell me what the so-called non violent civil disobedience is and how do you guys define it? Set fire to shops and facilities? Kill innocent children and women? Why didn't western media cover that tragedy Han Chinese suffered in Tibet in past two weeks? Why western media misled people,providng them with fake information,even cropping pictures into some kind they want as their proof?It's irony of ironies!!!Shame on western media!!! 　Chinese people welcome real friends from all over the world with sincerity,but we don't need someone like Sarkozy to come to Beijing Olympics!He threatens boycott the Games?Oh,It's not a big deal! LOL.

Kevin Guo, Wanzhou,Chongqing, China

1. Only power speaks.
2. People speak too, not only the president.

Michael, Beijing, China P.R.

<Western media's Pride and Predjudice>
The report of Tibetan incident inconsistent with the facts,western media is killer,I appeal chinese people boycott London Olympic Games.British don't forget IRA !

MAY, guangzhou, china

hello shaun smith---Indeed,China has it own laws,everone could protest ,but need apply to goverment,just like Canadian did.By china law,human has no right to kill person or make violent ,also have no right ask for independent.Tibetans break the law too much ,so they deserved punshied by law .I think Sarcozy has no right ask for china goverment break it own law for Olympic game~~!

leeyang, beijing, china

Mr. Sarkozy violated human rights in France when he ruthlessly crushed the uprising of Muslim population in Paris.
Chinese government must deny his access to Olympic ceremony.

Alex, Singapore,

At last, a European leader with guts.
Of course the Beijing Olympic Games should be boycotted to show the despotic, pariah regime in China that the world will not stand by and see any attempt at democracy extinguished.
Vive le Tibet libre!

Bob Christie, Burntisland, Scotland

Chinese leadership needs a slap in the face and a big wake up call from the international community. their human rights violations and propaganda and lies need to stop. President Sarkozy is taking a brave and rational choice in boycotting the Olympics. if the Chinese politic has any integrity they will have an open dialouge with the Dalai Lama without any preconditions.
let the Tibetan people have their autonomy and be able to maintain their rich cultural heritage in Tibet.

Wyndham Pounds, Colorado, USA

Is there anyone can tell me what the so-called non violent civil disobedience is and how do you guys define it? Set fire to shops and facilities? Kill innocent children and women? Why didn't western media cover that tragedy Han Chinese suffered in Tibet in past two weeks? Why did western media mislead people,providng them with fake information,even cropping pictures into some kind they want as their proof?It's irony of ironies!!!Shame on western media!!! 　
Chinese people welcome real friends from all over the world with sincerity,but we don't need someone like Sarkozy to come to Beijing!He will boycott the Games?Ooooh,It's not a big deal! LOL.

Kevin Guo, Wanzhou,Chongqing, China

Without Sarkozy, the olympics will go on normally! By the way,
When the violence was happening, were you just at the site where the violence broke out? Do you think everything you heard without seen is truth?

VJ, China,

I don't know the law in France,but by China law,human have not right to kill person , no right make violent or ask for independent.If you want protest ,you mast apply to local goverment.The tibetans break so many laws,they deserved punished by law.I think Sarcozy have right to boycott Olympic game,but he have no right to threaten China goverment break it own law for Olympic game.
I don't know the law in France ,I want to know anyone have the right to break law~~?Maybe France is different from China ,and human have right to brake so much law~!

leeyang, beijing, china

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Tim , LA, CALIFORNIA USA

Killing people?? Who kill who? I am a common Chinese,I saw
the followers with of Dalai killing,burning,destroying everything. They badly breaking the common normal nature of
humanbings.
They are peace-lover?? that's quite funny!!
Dalai is not a monk but a old brutal owner of slave!
dear friends of the world, this is just dirty trick of some ones.

May God knows what the president of France would really want to do!( I HATE YOU ,Mr Sarkozy!!!!)

pengjet, Harbin, China

As American person I am not wanting be interfering in not my country business

Tim , LA, CALIFORNIA USA

who care you?france presient don't comprehend china,his support from civilian bcome lower ,so he condemn china to transfer people's eyelight .what he said is his tactic.in fact colonist has no right to make indiscreet remarks or criticisms.

chaofe, beijing, china

the capabilty of humans to differentiate beliefs and apply these beliefs on other humans based on religion,skin color ,economics,nationality,etc... usually has diasterous results for examples, U.S. history with native americans and african americans, Germany ww II era with jews ,Spainards with aztecs of mexico , and the list goes on and on ....we humans of tiny earth need to realize that the earth isnt getting any bigger , but our populations are. and we need to think in terms of global neigbors and put aside of destructive ways .we need to learn and respect each other not fear and hate each other , let peace be

stephen orona, los angeles, united states

President Sarkozy. Apart from studying well the long China-Tibet history, please check the fact about the recent violent incidence.

The monks & Tibetan set fire against shops which burnt innocents alive to death. They armed with axes and hunting knives to have their demonstration. They are actually rioters & criminals, but not peacful protestors.

What did you do when French handled the riots in Paris? Did you let them protest unchecked?

Leung, Hong Kong , China

It is stupid for a leader of such significant country to make such an announcement without a prudence consideration of the world-wide peace.

kangxy, Beijing,

Can a person who don't know what on earth have happened in china critic china irresponsiblely? As a politics leader, Mr. Sarkozy's rude actions is so disappointing and intolerable for chinses people! Those western countries say they stand up calling for hunan rights for chinese people, too ridiculous! why chinese people do not call for it themselves, don't we have the ability and consciousness? No foreigners can represent chinese peolple,please shut up before our people have the appeal! What they really consider is the economic benefits, they are frightened china will threat their position in the world, they do not want to see china get strong,any moral excuse is a just fake excuse!

fanqin, Beijing, China

Seeing is believing~~but to Sakezy,hearing is believing~!LOL,Most western media believe tibet excile,who said more than 140 people were killed,but even cann't publish ten name of them~!China succeed in bolcking western media come in Tibet.Reduce the rumors ,just like they made up news Iraq's super-weapon,which nearly destory all Iraq.china gov may fear that western media want do every thing again to them,like they did in Iraq. how could china believe you ,western media~~!

leeyang, beijing, china

To Adam and others pointing out that the Han Chinese were the most recent victims in Lhasa -- yes, we do know that. This is not about "freeing Tibet" or the Chinese people; it's about the Chinese government and a system that pretends but really does not serve its citizens.

When the powerful make mistakes, regular people suffer, whether Tibetans, Han Chinese, whoever. Tragically, violence can be the only way to get a hearing for moderation, but while the violent are still wrong in those situations, so are those who create a system where only the violent are heard.

For a world leader to attend Olympic events in Beijing will be to say that he condones to some degree the genesis of the event and a government's persistent choices to ignore individual citizens' concerns without achieving sufficient public purposes. This is not about what the Chinese people perceive as their interests. It is only about President Sarkozy's conscience, even if it is imperfect.

Jennifer, Phoenix, Arizona

I am very wondered that how those people like Sarkozy have this idea, why can't they listen to the reality from travellers who was in Tibet that days. Is that so difficult?

John, Wenzhou, China

Human rights, democracy, we Chinese do have them and

treasure them. But how about western media's untrue

reports? A part of American"s and French"s tradition or

the way of dealing with affairs in China?

Olympics refuse politic! Whoever boycotts Beijing Olympics

is doomed to punishment since that guy has destoried

the sprits of Olympic Games as well as sports.

kiko YUan, Shanghai, China

not any chinese will welcome a person who wants to divide their nation!

stone, guangdong, china

Get some perspective. The Olymipcs are just games. The Chinese governmnet is killing human beings. If a boycott will help free Tibet, let's boycott the damn games.

John, Los Angeles,

firstly ,please dont take any politics factor into Sports spirit
secondly, it's none of anyone's business
as prime minister wenjiabao said,.we have the power to deal with this!

tank, dalian,

wowwww, I am totally stunned that the press could translate what Sarkozy said into threats of a boycott. great propaganda. look at the commets, why western people have so much hatred against chinese, unfathomable, I guess it's a crime trying to be a superpower

J, Lulea, Sweden

If Sarkozy doesn't come to China, we keep a place for his newly married ex-wife or his present wife standing for Italy. The editors of French magazines can free themselves from retouching their president's photos to watch TV.
Anyway, we can save money of Chinese taxpayers.

jaimetra, Shanghai, China

what did Sarcozy do when French meet violent.you cann't ask you "friend" do anything thay you even cann't do in you country~~!So if you want china divided,just tell us ,do not need that deploma words such as" talk or restraint in dealing with the Tibetan independence movement".Boycott anything is you own right ,but never try to divided other country~!If you wish do it in your France~~

leeyang, beijing, china

Its impossible to get the Chinese to negotiate. They are the real #1 superpower, thanks to Bush and American addiction to cheap crap. Hopefully, the majority Chinese who are a great people will prevail and tell the Communist thugs to talk to the Dalai Lama.

Venkat, Fremont, CA

Reading many unbiased eye-witness accounts from foreign tourists and very few foreign journalists who happened to be in Tibet at the time of the recent trouble, it seems to me that the recent incident in Lhasa was nothing but a riot, pure and simple.

I remember that Sarkozy was quick to condemn the Paris rioters in 2005, rather than finding excuses for them.

Whatever grievances people may be, violence should never be condoned. A truly civilised society or country should play its part in ensuring that violence never pays.

Surely a just and more even-handed approach is for governments like ours to CONDEMN the Lhasa rioters first, and then urge China and Dalai Lama to talk.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I agree with Ewan. I wanna tell the others,when you say a lot about Tibet before you know a lot of truth., which you say is a load of tripe.

Jason, beijing, china

I see the Chinese people are taking full advantage or their governments decision to allow more western media access!..They are a people who are rightly,very proud of their governments achievements in all areas of society,and very proud that they are Chinese!...Western anti Chinese online media stories will get a very rough ride from now on,and it's a great way for them to improve their English language!!.....Well done Guys,keep up the good work!

David Murphy, Chengdu,Sichuan Province, China

Bravo Sarkozy! The Han sinicization and subjugation of Tibet and other non-Han peoples has gone on for far, far too long. The West must apply enormous pressure to stop the Han imperialists, and now is the time while Bejing is in the spotlight.

Boycott! Boycott! Boycott!

Shaun Smith, Toronto, Canada

Good for Sarko! I wish he was one of ours.

Two matters are at issue, and they dovetail into each other. First, the Chinese human rights record is atrocious from even a forgiving perspective. This incident is a drop in the bucket. The environmental degradation alone, including that related to the Olympics, is severe. Second, this isn't about envy; Chinese rates of growth are indicative of a poor country, not a wealthy one, which explains why preparations for the Games have not gone well -- and have raised human rights concerns.

There are distinctions about human rights to be made here, and it was time someone got serious about making them. I do not care about President Sarkozy's motives. Pointing out how few clothes the emperor is wearing was the right thing to do.

I would like the Games to go well for the athletes' sakes, but China has not made decisions to make that particularly likely.

Jennifer, Phoenix, Arizona

Tibetan incident inconsistent with the facts.I appeal chinese boycott London Olympic Games!

may, guangzhou, china

"No, the British government is not in a position to upset much of anything in the world these days."

Ooh, did that hurt your nationalist pride DW from Kunming? I wasn't talking about influence. Somoa can influence, Marshall Islands can influence, I was actually talking about "upset".

Now tell me DW, what exactly can your proud people and government "upset" these days with your 5th largest this and 4th largest that? Especially now that your former colonial subject India has the second largest this and the largest of that.

No more colonialism - by the British in any case. And that, DW, is what you will have to get used to.

Marcus, Sydney, Australia

If the EU boycotted the Games, I would be soooo impressed. (That would put so much pressure on our leaders over here to stand up and do something. I don't think, they would do it otherwise.) ............ and I'm so tired of hearing threats from Chinese citizens on the boards. (Footnote to angry Chinese citizens: This is what a free community does. We have the right to assemble and speak, as we see fit.)

wolf, buffalo, ny, u.s.

JACK OF BEIJING...You want to know if Scotland wants their independence!....The answer is ,a growing number of people including Shaun Connery or "James Bond" fame are pushing for independence,but a lot of OIL comes through Scotland from the North Sea oil fields,and England would loose the revenue if Scotland was given independence!..

David Murphy, Chengdu,Sichuan Province, China

The Olimpic Committee decided 7 years to have this game in Beijing. So please let us do this. The absolute majority of the chinese are supportive to the government on this. they will be good hosts. sports people will find beijing and other hosting cities are as good as the previous hosts, if not better. For politicans, if they accepted the invitation and come to the opening, certainly they would be warmly welcomed. if they decided not to come, it is not going to be the end of the world for anyone. If anyone who tries to link this purely sport event with unrelated things, he will find it is not helpful to solve anything, only to cause greater resentment from chinese. clinton declared he would not grant china the Most favor nations status,should china not improve its" human right record". he slapped himself on the face several times by extend MFS. Sarkozy led a relatively small power, no big deal at all.

shenqi, beijing, china

I'm a very normal young Chinese citizen educated and grown up with Western culture via various media and many people from Europe and America. I dislike or even can say hate violence as most of the Chinese people. But as a member of an old, ever weak, and not enough developed country, I believe it's absolutely difficult to keep the land integrity. It's so obvious that citizen in any country do not wanna experience the split of her or his country.

Maybe foreigners regard Tibet as a colony, however, Tibet is always a part or a satellite territory of China from over 1000 years ago. You will find lots of Lama Temple in China even in Beijing city. That's why Chinese think that Tibetan, Hans, and other 54 nations are all "Chinese".

Even the Dalai Lama condamned the violent protests by those Tibetans. He's ever said his goal is NOT the independence of Tibet. (I read from Time.com/Time/Asia recently) In fact, I can not imagine the paradox on his words and actual behaviour.

Leo, Tianjin, China

I thought Mr Sarkozy is an arrogant leader like many other western leaders and medias. Maybe inside of them, they don't want to see the developpment of China, even they have got the rich profit from the huge chance for them. Maybe Mr Sarkozy has forgotten what he had done when he was in the position of Ministry of Interior. Please be fair for China and look at China without the blinkers!!!

Frank, Hangzhou,

The UK does not need to conform its decision to that of France. In principle, sports and politics should not be mixed up. We should not forget a large number of athletes seriously making efforts and looking forward to participating in the Beijing Olympics. In addition, his suggestion looks like a common method taken by a political leader who has been losing his/her poplularity rapidly.

Hiromi Ishida, Tokyo, Japan

I wanna know if most westerner were brainwashed by Cold War. Before you criticise Chinese government, you have already accept that it's a evil one. But I think maybe it is better than other big country. At least, China has never invaded any other countries or made the occupation for 5 years. Democracy,haha, it's only a mask when western politicians need it.

Jason, beijing, china

There is an old saying in China that "knowing about shame then you will be brave",i wanna ask you french men and English men,do u still remember the history that your countrys' invading CHINA in Qing dynasty 140 years ago?Now you are talking about human right,who do you think you are?Please leave our Chinese problems to ourselves,mind your own business!

Jack Shepherd, Shanghai, China

Just a Cheap shot for a temporary stagnation in his falling ratings. Blame others, thats the way to do it. We want new president!

jean marie, boulougne sur mer, france

No real investigation, no reasonable criticism

We Chinese always welcome foreigners paying attention to our country' s development, but do not have prejudice against China.

Jianwei, Qingdao, China

so i want to know if Scotch wants get their independence```````````

jack, beijing, china

Very funny, and stupid.

I believe most of people here have never been to Chinese Tibet. Some western medias have admitted they twisted what has happened in the Chinese tibet.

Why did they do this? In fact, most of them are not interested in supporting the so called "non-violent protestor", what they are interested in is to insult chinese people and to stop the development of China. They are jealous of the quick development of the China during these years. They are afraid China will avenge when he become the superpower, because they have invaded and insulted China rudely about 150years ago and never apologized for it.
Please think of it, is this what you are hiding deep in your heart?

I suggest you stop these funny action, come to China and try to understand what has really happened in China. Do not anger and challenge Chinese any more. It could not help you but increase the misunderstanding.

Robin Luo, Hangzhou, China

the foreigner thought they know China, they have the ability to get into the act and make the thing better, that's so ridiculous. no one but himself know wether catch a cold or not, wether feel hungry or not, no one but himself know what the truth is.
trust them can handle the thing right! i would give a suggestion: OTHERS,GET OUT OF THE WAY!

jane, chongqing, china

Old colonist countries like UK and France have no rights to speak on topic of Tibet.
Why Mr.Sarkozy did not boycott olympics since 2007? Why is 2008?
I do not believe any government in this world.

Young, Beijing, China

i guess the real misapprehend is china blank off the messages to west media, so you all think this attack was launched by chinese government( truth is absolutely opposite). Please try to understand this behavior, under the pressure of Olympic, china just want to cut down the bad influences!

Amiee, shanghai, china

"No, the British government is not in a position to upset much of anything in the world these days.

-Marcus, Sydney, Australia"

In many ways Marcus I wish that were true. But as the world's 5th largest economy, 4th largest military spender, a nuclear power, a permanent member of the UN security council, the second largest eocnomy in the EU and numerous historical links around the world, Britain is still very much an influential power and it is the British people and government's responsibilty to ensure that power is used correctly.

To the Chinese posters; yes the riots appear to be conducted by violent mobs and the Chinese police is correct to try to bring sfaety and stability back to Tibet. But just as the Paris rioters helped highlight the alienation of the ethnic minorities in much of that city, so too do these riots once again bring forth the very valid question concerning Tibet's status. But nothing will change in the current climate of nationalism here

DW, Kunming, China

Hmm...so French president threatens to not come to this big party in China? Who cares?

I'm sure the next time when another riot takes place in Paris, the international community is gonna witness how French government exercises its "dialogue" muscles again.

JL, NH, US

Sarkozy,Chinese people never welcome you to China! The sun will rise everyday without your attending Beijing Olympic.

philip ouyang, new york, usa

It is my first time to agree with this showly French man. China can't take place Olympic games. For the sake of denouncing the Beijing government, all the thinkable people, leaders should stand up for Tibetans.

D.Uchimura, Tokyo, Japan

no investigation no right to have comments. the S something is really kiding me and i think he is not welcome by China. He is not necessary in the ceremony of 2008 Olympic games.

Joey, Amsterdam, Netherland

"Their treatment of non violent civil disobedience is shameful.". Good God! I guess you need to go to the hospital and get your eyes and ears checked. Did you call that 'non violent civil disobedience'? Oh my God! If I go to your country, setting fires, throwing stones, beating children and women and destroying shops and facilities, will you call that 'non violent civil disobedience'? Are you telling me that, in your country, if I did all those things mentioned above, your country wouldn't 'crackdown' me? I am not supporting China's policy, actually, I am a critic of China, and I also hope China should allow more free speech, value human rights and so on. But your saying looks too naive. Even the Dalai Lama condamned the violent protests by those Tibetans. And you were talking about 'non violent disobedience'. So funny.

ZHANG, Yong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

He does right I wish our dithering PM would do the same but hopefully with any luck he will check in too late to catch the flight

The athletes should go and the Heads of State not.

Mike, Leeds, UK

To Rob in Signapore - No, the British government is not in a position to upset much of anything in the world these days.

You see the world has changed, it's quite a bit different from say 120 years ago.

Get used to it.

Marcus, Sydney, Australia

Any boycott of the Olympics to protest the lack of "freedom" in Tibet is shameful. One problem with democracy is politicians taking unreasoned positions to ingratiate themselves to a public devouring the latest news cycle, which often lacks knowledge and analysis.

If one believed the portrayal of Tibet as a land of holy people oppressed by a foreign power (little of which is true) - one wonders why the media, the public and politicians are not expressing similar distress for the Uyghurs.

Perhaps the media narrative of a foreign power invading a Muslim country and oppressing its population would not play as well in western news cycles. Perhaps as they are not a current cause celebre we can morally ignore them.

Personally I dislike the way China - which drastically improved human rights after the Dalai Lama's rule - is portrayed regarding Tibet. But anyone wishing to see better human rights in China would call for it for all Chinese - and not just a select few million.

John, London,

Does the fact that British arms trade with China has incerased dramatically have anything to do with the government not wanting to upset the applecart? I wonder?

Rob, Singapore,

I had read news from Figaro newspaper that it have riot in Pairs in the past. the french policemen also use the violence and force to put down the protester. I also think that it the action to break the human right. because the important think of the government is provide the job seat to poor human. it is the base human right for every person.

Cao zheng mao, Xian, China/shaanxi

Good news! Tibetans need worldwide support to get their independence and religion free.

Chen, Soochow, China

The Chinese wanted the world to notice them and to focus on them and now we are. Their treatment of non violent civil disobedience is shameful.

Jon Anthony, Wichita, KS, USA

Has anyone here been to Tibet even once or at least been able to point out where Tibet is on a world map without any letters?
No real investigation, no reasonable criticism.

Bruce , Ningbo, China

he will re-gain popularity in his recent statistics fall ! very good anyway !

Philippe Dury, Lausanne, Switzerland

first of all , everyone has never suffered the riot please shut up. And if u never seen the reality please keep your ears upand your mouth closed! No matter what the western media said that's not true . I wanna ask a question to those who wrote the unreal passages have you suffered the riot by yourself ? Have you heard the voice of victims? Only the lies from dalai and twisted news from the way undertable how can you say China broke the peace of tibet ! I have a firm faith that one day after you come to china you will see who is the liar. And also hope the france president who says someting approprite would appologize for his rude activity that intervene
chinese national affairs! And I also want to tell you no matter whether you come or not china will run and the olympic games will go on !

adam, Tibet, China

I agree with my president,It's the first time.

Hugo, Besancon, France

Reading many unbiased eye-witness accounts from foreign tourists and very few foreign journalists who happened to be in Tibet at the time of the recent trouble, it seems to me that the recent incident in Lhasa was nothing but a riot, pure and simple.

I remember that Sarkozy was quick to condemn the Paris rioters in 2005, rather than finding excuses for them.

Whatever grievances people may be, violence should never be condoned. A truly civilised society or country should play its part in ensuring that violence never pays.

Surely a just and more even-handed approach is for governments like ours to CONDEMN the Lhasa rioters first, and then urge China and Dalai Lama to talk.

Ewan G, Glasgow, Scotland

well done, i just hope that other EU leders will have the confidence to follow suite, and send a powerful message to china, to show that that the EU trade block will not lend unconditional support for the sake of appeasing a rising superpower

kai gorringe, totnes, devon

Excellent!!! Mr. President, although I never agree with you,
Bravo !!!

Joaquim, Paris, France

Well done Sarkozy...and I never thought I would say that.

Lainey, london,

I did thank I'd congratulate him. And I'm happy to have been proven right. Well done my son!

Travis, Barcelona, Spain

Great news.... opening ceremony boycott is definately needed if china continues its brutality and media censorship. lets hope more and more politicians and dignitaries follow this example.

BMolony, Queanbeyan, Australia

i believe that world leaders around the world must exercise their power and influence in order to presure chinese government to at least to listen what the rest of the world has to say. olympic games and the idea of olympism is based upon friendship and mutual understanding, ideals that so far chinese have ignored.

michalis, greece

michail passalis, athens, greece

Congratulations, Mr. Sarkozy! You are the first, but I hope not the last, leader to stand up for the persecuted Tibetans and threaten to boycott the Games. If something is not done NOW to help them get therir independence, there will never be another chance. I think that now attitudes will change thanks to your stand and hopefully the wimpish Western leaders, who are only interested in money and commerce, will ensure that the Chinese are no longer allowed to kill monks and other innocent protesters and give the Tibetans their freedom. Moral standards must be restored! Bravo!

Lady Bute, Edinburgh, Scotland