Originally published by ABC News, Mar 23, 2011 

Exiled Uighur leader activist, Rebiya Kadeer (User submitted: James Fehon)

 

The Federal Government says China has sought several assurances from Australia that it will handle a visit by exiled Uighur leader Rebiya Kadeer “carefully”.

The last time Ms Kadeer visited Australia, China asked the Federal Government not to grant her a visa, and later tried to pressure the National Press Club not to televise her speech.

The Uighur leader – who China accuses of being a terrorist – is in Canberra today to meet Federal MPs.

One of the MPs who helped organise the visit, Michael Danby, says it appears China has taken a different approach with this visit.

“They couldn’t have done worse than last time,” he said.

“I think they have made their protests and I think they understand that Australia is a free society.

“There’s a new ambassador here now. That may be part of the explanation too.”

Mr Danby says it is important for Australians to hear about the struggles of minority groups.

“Australians have a view that democracy’s not just having elections every three years, it’s about how you treat your minorities, how you treat women, civil liberties, the rule of law,” he said.

“The Uighur people are a very important minority in the geographic area of China.”

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/03/23/3170966.htm?section=justin