The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, Washington

Democratic White House candidate Hillary Clinton Monday urged President George W. Bush to boycott the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, saying he should press China over Tibet and Darfur.

"The violent clashes in Tibet and the failure of the Chinese government to use its full leverage with Sudan to stop the genocide in Darfur are opportunities for presidential leadership," Clinton said.

"These events underscore why I believe the Bush administration has been wrong to downplay human rights in its policy towards China," she said.

"At this time, and in light of recent events, I believe President Bush should not plan on attending the opening ceremonies in Beijing, absent major changes by the Chinese government," the former first lady added. Before Clinton's call, White House spokesman Tony Fratto reiterated the administration's opposition to demands for leaders to boycott the Beijing Olympics.