Contact: Daniel Burton, China Aid Association, Inc., 432-689-6985, 267-205-5210, info@ChinaAid.org; www.chinaaid.org, www.monitorchina.org

WASHINGTON, July 29 /Christian Newswire/ -- Today just before noon, Bob Fu, President of China Aid Association, met with President Bush along with 4 other leaders advocating for human rights and religious freedom in China. This historic meeting sends a strong statement to the Chinese government officials of the President's priorities in his visit to the opening Beijing 2008 Olympic Games next week. President Bush explained his desire to talk to the Chinese officials about human rights violations, and also speak with the Chinese people about the importance of religious freedom. The President promised to discuss with President Hu Jintao that the Christians in his country are peace-loving and caring people, and that he should not be afraid of them. Bob Fu delivered "Prayer for China" wrist bands to the President and encouraged him to wear them as a symbol of solidarity with the Chinese people. In addition to explaining the deteriorating situation for religious freedom in China as the Olympics approach, Bob Fu also raised the case of house church leader Zhang Rongliang, who is serving his 7 ½ year prison sentence and Bob asked President Bush to intercede in his behalf.

Photo: President of CAA, Bob Fu

President Bush's willingness to meet with Bob Fu and other activists despite the sensitivity and complexity of Sino-American relations is a clear showing of his commitment for basic human rights within China. China Aid Association is deeply thankful to President Bush for his courageous stand in the advancement of Religious freedom in China and around the world.

Issued by CAA July 29, 2008