Sign up to The Irish Times Archive (1859 - 2008)My Account »

DAYS BEFORE China’s annual parliament meets in Beijing, the government dismissed sharp US criticism of its human rights record, saying Washington should get its own house in order before attacking other countries.

At the same time, Human Rights Watch said China should open Tibet to independent monitors and journalists to defuse tensions before the 50th anniversary of anti-Chinese riots in Lhasa next month. “Relying exclusively on repressive policies will only lead to increased polarisation and resentment, while further jeopardising genuine stability across Tibet,” said Sophie Richardson, its Asia advocacy director.