12 June 2002

Mr David Oddsson
Prime Minister of Iceland

By Facsimile: 00354-5609900

Dear Sir/Madam

We have received notification the Government of Iceland has adopted a policy preventing the otherwise lawful entry into Iceland of Chinese and Taiwanese passport holders during the period coinciding with the visit of the Chinese President, Jiang Zemin.

I am concerned about the existence of any such policy as it raises serious issues relating to compliance with Human Rights obligations and International Law.

I would be obliged if you could please clarify the position of the Icelandic Goverment in regard to this issue and provide your assurance the otherwise lawful entry of Chinese citizens will not be obstructed by external political influences coinciding with the visit of Jian Zemin.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Roger Helmer MEP