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<p>We remain deeply concerned about the persecution of Christians, Muslims and others
on the grounds of their religion or belief in China. The freedom to practise, change
or share ones faith or belief without discrimination or violent opposition is a human
right that all people should enjoy.</p><p> </p><p>Accordingly, at the 40<sup>th</sup>
UN Human Rights Council in March 2019, during his opening address on 25 February,
Lord (Tariq) Ahmad raised concerns about restrictions on freedom of religion and belief
in China including on Muslims in Xinjiang and Christians across China. We also co-sponsored
a side event on “Protecting the fundamental freedoms in Xinjiang” in March 2019, which
helped to raise awareness of the situation among the international community. Lord
Ahmad also set out the Government’s position when answering an Oral Question in the
House of Lords on 4 April 2019. Further, we raised our concerns on freedom of religion
and belief during China’s Universal Periodic Review in November 2018.</p><p> </p><p>Ministers
and senior officials frequently raise human rights issues bilaterally with their Chinese
counterparts. The Foreign Secretary highlighted our concerns on Xinjiang with Chinese
State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his most recent visit to China
in July 2018. Our Embassy in Beijing regularly raises the treatment of Uyghurs in
Xinjiang and concerns about the pressures facing Christians directly with Chinese
officials.</p>
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