President Bush has leveled his most pointed criticism to date of China’s record on human rights. Speaking in Thailand earlier today, Bush said the US is in “firm opposition” to some Chinese policies.

President Bush: “America stands in firm opposition to China’s detention of political dissidents and human rights advocates and religious activists. We speak out for a free press and freedom of assembly and labor rights, not to antagonize China’s leaders, but because trusting its people with greater freedom is the only way for China to develop its full potential.”

Bush spoke shortly before leaving Bangkok for Beijing, where he will take part in the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games. His comments come hours after several Americans staged protests in Beijing to criticize the Chinese government. Three protesters gathered in Tiananmen Square.

Protester: “Freedom cannot be silenced. We have come here to say end the brutality, end the brutality. Thousands of students were killed in Tiananmen Square. We come in peace to say end tyranny and oppression.”

Earlier in the day, two Americans were arrested near the Olympic Games stadium for unfurling banners calling for Tibetan independence.