Biden amends statement, states opposition to China’s 1-child policy
August 25, 2011
Stung by public criticism, US Vice President Joseph Biden has backtracked from recent remarks in which he said that he “fully understand[s]” and is “not second-guessing” China’s brutal one-child policy.
“The Obama administration strongly opposes all aspects of China’s coercive birth limitation policies, including forced abortion and sterilization,” said Biden spokeswoman Kendra Barkoff. “The vice president believes such practices are repugnant.”
“The Obama administration has yet to issue a clear call to end the policy, which is harmful both to the Chinese and American people,” responded Chai Ling, leader of the student democracy movement at Tienanmen Square. “While the vice president’s retraction certainly clarifies the White House’s position on forced abortions and forced sterilizations, it still falls short of what is required--action.”
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Further information:
- Under fire, Biden blasts 'repugnant' China policies (AFP)
- All Girls Allowed says the magnitude of tragedy in China merits more than a statement from the Administration
- Biden: not 'second-guessing' China's one-child policy (CWN, 8/23)
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