Thank you for contacting me regarding the deplorable treatment of members of the Falun Gong sect in China. It's always good to hear from the folks we work for.

I have read the reports that have circulated in the media and other sources regarding the treatment of Falun Gong practitioners in China. The Chinese government has a history of poor human rights in many different areas, ranging from religious persecution to China's one child policy, under which the Chinese government severely persecutes parents seeking to have more than one child.

I am hopeful that the United States current strategy of engagement with China will influence the Chinese government and people to move toward democratic and human rights reforms. But while I support economic engagement, the United States should not be lenient in advocating for substantial reform in China.

Once again, thank you for your comments. I will keep your concerns in mind as legislation regarding U.S. foreign policy regarding China comes to the House floor for a vote.

Sincerely,

Gil Gutknecht

Member of Congress