U.S. Vows Continued Support for Freedom in N. Korea

U.S. President George W. Bush reaffirmed his stance on promoting basic human rights of North Koreans on April 30, saying, “I believe that living a free and dignified life is the basic right of all human beings. The United States will side with North Korean people who yearn for freedom.”

In a presidential declaration issued marking the 6th North Korea Freedom Week, President Bush emphasized, “We will continue to support North Korean people in their battle to secure their inherent rights and freedom.” The event commemorating the special week is being hosted by the North Korea Freedom Coalition (NKFC), a U.S. civic group promoting North Korea’s human rights.

Expressing his gratitude to all the people observing the special week, Bush said, “I am deeply concerned about the grim situation facing North Koreans where the oppressive regime continues to deny its people human rights, particularly the freedom of expression, speech, religion, association and assembly, and to suppress their rights to move their residence freely and rights of laborers.”

“I have met some brave North Korean defectors in my office. They told me the adversity of their families they had left behind in North Korea. I am really worried about their pain.” Bush also added, “We are looking forward to seeing the day when North Korean people relish their freedom.”

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