CHINA: Security was tightened in Beijing's diplomatic belt last night in preparation for the arrival in China today of President Bush on the last leg of his three-nation Asian tour, writes Miriam Donohoe.
Thousands of police were drafted into the area on the eve of visit, which takes place exactly 30 years to the day since Mr Richard Nixon became the first US president to visit the country.
The five star St Regis Hotel was cordoned off yesterday to make way for the 200-strong American delegation. It was still unclear whether Mr Bush would be staying there, or in the state guest house.
The Chinese and American sides have been arguing all week about this issue, with the Americans insisting that Mr Bush stay in the St Regis. However, the Chinese are insisting that he stay in state accommodation for security reasons, a source told The Irish Times.
Chinese concerns over US plans for a missile defence system are expected to be raised in talks between Mr Bush and the Chinese President, Mr Jiang Zemin. Mr Bush will be appealing for continued support in the war against terrorism.
The US President said yesterday he would also raise the issue of religious freedom with the Chinese leader, a major sticking point in US-Sino relations. Specifically, Mr Bush is expected to raise reported abuse of Americans expelled by China last week for protesting at the ban on the Falun Gong spiritual movement. Thirty-seven US citizens were detained between February 11th and 14th in Beijing and they have recounted their experience to the State Department in Washington.
Mr Bush will make an address to a group of students at Qinghua University today before having formal talks with Mr Jiang. The speech will be televised live .
He is expected to have a brief encounter at the university with Mr Hu Jintao. It will be a rare opportunity for Mr Bush and US officials to scrutinise the man most likely to be the next Chinese leader.