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New Zealand lawmaker blasts Chinese complaint

"I just find it bizarre that we continue to tolerate this behavior by the Chinese."

Peter Dunne, leader of the United Future Party

A New Zealand lawmaker yesterday alleged that he was scolded by a Chinese diplomat for attending President Chen Shui-bian's (陳水扁) inauguration, a response he described as "bizarre" and "offensive."

United Future Party leader Peter Dunne -- a key supporter of Prime Minister Helen Clark's government -- told parliament that a Chinese Embassy official had told him it was a "matter of disappointment and dissatisfaction" that he went to the May 20 event.

"I just find it bizarre that we continue to tolerate this behavior by the Chinese," Dunne said, adding that the New Zealand government already maintains a "one China" policy.

"To me it was very offensive," he said. "I went there to take part in what I thought was a celebration of democracy -- which it certainly was -- and I didn't expect to get this sort of abuse from the Chinese Embassy for exercising my democratic rights."

Dunne said he attended the celebration at the personal invitation of Chen.

China denounced Chen on Monday for showing "no sincerity to improve relations" in his inauguration address and warned that peace between the two sides was in danger.

In an interview with reporters, Dunne said, "I know the Chinese wouldn't understand anything about democracy and freedom, but this is a free country, I have the right to travel."

The Chinese Embassy in Wellington did not immediately respond to calls seeking comment.
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