FM Spokesman on Passage of International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural RightsThe time is ripe for the passage of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhu Bangzao made the remarks Tuesday at a regular press conference in Beijing. Zhu said that the proposal of the State Council on the ratification of the covenant is considered to be feasible. He said that the just-concluded meeting of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress deliberated the passage of the covenant, and Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan explained this issue further at the meeting. The Standing Committee of the NPC held that China has paid much attention to improving and protecting the human rights and fundamental freedom of citizens, and advocated that the right of survival and development are fundamental human rights. The main content of the covenant conforms to the Chinese government's laws, policies and acts, he added. Zhu noted that the Chinese economy has maintained rapid, sustainable and healthy development this year. Chinese people's rights in economic, social and cultural fields have been improved. Many members of the NPC Standing Committee suggested that as the covenant relates to China's economic and social elements, it should be passed at an early and proper date on the basis of comprehensive and detailed studies. "We hope that the covenant will be ratified as soon as possible," Zhu said. |
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