Speak Truth to Power

Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd "is the highest-profile western leader to visit China since unrest erupted in Tibet last month. Speaking in fluent Mandarin to students at Beijing University, he began by defying his hosts and voicing concern over human rights in the Himalayan region.

“Australia like most other countries recognises China’s sovereignty over Tibet. But we also believe it is necessary to recognise there are significant human rights problem in Tibet. The current situation in Tibet is of concern to Australians.

We recognise the need for all parties to avoid violence and find a solution through dialogue. As a long-standing friend of China I intend to have a straightforward discussion with China’s leaders on this.

We wish to see the year 2008 as one of harmony, and celebration – not one of conflict and contention. "

The Australian, April 09, 2008

Below, The Prime Minister apologises that his Mandarin was not as good as it had been, and cited a Chinese saying: "We don't fear anything in heaven or earth except for a laowai, a foreigner, speaking Chinese.". Awesome.