Demonstrations in China. (Department of State statements, George Bush addresses) (transcript)

DEPARTMENT STATEMENT, MAY 18, 19891

The Department of State advises Americans traveling to China to use caution and avoid areas where demonstrations are occurring. There is no indication of any antiforeign feeling among the demonstrators. Nonetheless caution, good sense, and discretion are called for to ensure Americans are not caught up in a demonstration. This alert does not advise against traveling to China; only that caution should be exercised.

WHITE HOUSE STATEMENT, MAY 20, 19892 President Bush this morning received his daily intelligence briefing, including an update on the status of events in China. The situation remains uncertain. Both sides have exercised restraint, and we urge that restraint to continue. The United States stands for freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, and President Bush commented yesterday on the inexorable march of democracy in China. The demonstrations of the last few days indicate that the hunger for change remains strong. We remain hopeful that a dialogue between the government and the students is possible.

WHITE HOUSE STATEMENT, MAY 23, 19892

The President today met with Wan Li, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Following the plenary meeting, Wan Li visited the residence to greet Mrs. Bush.

The Chinese leader briefed the President on the outcome of the recent Sino-Soviet summit and on the student demonstrations in China. "We are strongly committed to democracy around the world," the President said. "It is the underpinning of our being as a nation. I urge nonviolence and restraint in your present situation. I urge that Voice of America not be jammed and that reporters be given open access."

The President told Chairman Wan that he remains personally committed to expanding the normal and constructive relations the United States enjoys with China. The world has a stake in China's economic progress, national security, and political vitality. The United States hopes to see the continuing implementation of economic and political reforms, which undoubtedly will also help advance these goals.

PRESIDENTS STATEMENT, JUNE 3, 19893

It is clear that the Chinese Government has chosen to use force against Chinese citizens …