27 June 2006

Dear Mr. Jia,

The China correspondent of the Singapore Straits Times Mr. Ching Cheong has been detained on the mainland for 1 4 months since 22 April 2005. He is now detained by order of the Supreme People’s Court of the PRC. The International Federation of Journalists ( IFJ), Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) express our grave concerns over this case.

We also call for the relevant departments to handle Ching’s case in a “fair, just and open” manner. If there is insufficient proof, Ching should be released as soon as possible so that he can be reunited with his family in Hong Kong. This will demonstrate the national policy of safeguarding the rights of citizens, uphold the rule of law and maintain a harmonious society.

The IFJ, HKJA and RSF also demand that the Chinese authorities to safeguard press freedom and freedom of expression in Hong Kong. Hong Kong is not only an international financial and information hub but also has strong links with the economic, trade, culture and tourism sectors of the mainland. To uphold press freedom and freedom of expression is the cornerstone of social development and the core value of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s government and the citizens of Hong Kong. We therefore urge the Chinese government to cancel the “Seven points to note for Hong Kong and Macao journalists who wish to cover news in mainland China”, ensuring that journalists covering stories on the mainland provide diversified information.

Sincerely yours,

Mr. Chris Warren President of IFJ

Mr. Robert Menard, General Secretary of RSF

Ms CHEUNG Ping-ling, Chairperson of HKJA

Cc:

Chief President of the Supreme People’s Court of China Mr. Xiao Yang

Chief Executive of HKSAR government Mr. Donald Tsang

Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in HKSAR Mr. Gao Siren

Mrs. Mary Ching