AUSTIN AMERICAN STATESMAN

Monday, July 30

Letters

China and the Olympics

The July 14 editorial," China Olympics offer opportunity for changes," has a valid point in that China's win of the 2008 Olympics will have the slimmest chance of changing the way communists run China. China could make the preparation for the Olympics an excuse for national solidarity to further suppress human rights in China and increase its military threats to the neighboring democratic Taiwan. The latest spy convictions of several China-born U.S. scholars are clear examples.

I foresee more Chinese people will fight with the authorities on human rights issues and political issues. Using the Olympics as an excellent platform, activists will campaign for a root change to the current China politics. They might be successful in five or 10 years if they are properly organized and supported.

Until then, the relationship between the United States and China will be peaceful.

SCHILLER LIAO

President, Central Texas Chapter

Formosan Association for Public Affairs

Austin