SE North Carolina News

Washington, D.C. - Senators Ted Budd and Thom Tillis announced their plan to introduce the Combatting the Persecution of Religious Groups in China Act. This legislation aims to hold senior Chinese government officials accountable for the persecution of Christians and other religious minorities. The bill is being led in the House by Rep. Mark Alford.

The proposed bill includes several key provisions to address the issue. Firstly, it declares the persecution of Christians and other religious minorities by senior Chinese government officials as a gross violation of human rights. Secondly, it seeks to ensure that trade negotiations with China include conditions on protecting religious freedom. Lastly, it establishes the policy of the United States to continue designating China as a "country of particular concern" as long as they engage in violations of religious freedom.

Sen. Budd emphasized the importance of religious freedom, stating, "One of the most sacred human rights is the right to freely practice your religion. The Chinese government has violated these rights for decades by routinely and egregiously persecuting Christians and other religious groups. Until China changes course, it should be the policy of the United States to hold them accountable."

Senator Tillis, co-chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, expressed his concern over China's human rights record and their persecution of citizens for practicing their own religious beliefs. He highlighted his participation in advocating for prisoners of conscience in China, including Pastor John Cao and Pastor Wang Yi. Senator Tillis urged the United States to take China's blatant disregard for religious freedom into consideration during future business and trade negotiations.

Rep. Alford echoed the sentiment that the Chinese Communist Party's persecution and control of religious groups and traditions must be confronted. He emphasized the need to safeguard the sanctity of faith and protect the fundamental right to religious freedom. Rep. Alford stated, "With this bill, we send a clear message: the United States will not stand idly by while religious freedoms are under attack."

The introduction of the Combatting the Persecution of Religious Groups in China Act demonstrates a strong commitment by Senators Budd and Tillis, along with Rep. Alford, to address the issue of religious persecution in China. By holding senior Chinese government officials accountable and including religious freedom conditions in trade negotiations, the bill aims to ensure the protection of religious minorities and uphold the fundamental right to practice one's faith freely.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.budd.senate.gov/2023/10/27/budd-tillis-to-introduce-bill-to-combat-persecution-of-religious-groups-in-china/