August 8, 2001

Dear [name withheld]:

Thank you for getting in touch regarding China and Falun Gong. I did receive your letter and video tape. I appreciate hearing from you.

Here in America we enjoy a wealth of personal freedoms that many throughout the world have difficulty imagining, let alone experience. That is why it is vital that the United States take a leading role in ensuring that the most basic of human rights of life and liberty are protected for every member of the human population. The Chinese government has been and will continue to be faulted for their violations of these basic rights of their people.

As you know, H. CON. RES. 188 expresses the sense of Congress that the Government of the People's Republic of China should cease its persecution of Falun Gong practitioners. This piece of legislation is currently pending in the House of Representatives. When this or any other issue involving human rights comes before the Senate, I will be sure to keep your views firmly in mind.

Thanks again for getting in touch. Please don't hesitate to contact me should you have additional concerns. Also, feel free to review my web site at http://baucus.senate.gov for more information on current events here in Washington and at home in Montana.

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With best personal regards, I am

Senator Max Baucus