4 .

.

' ' ' ' .

3 . .

*****

  
Human rights activists say they are disappointed by U.S. President George Bush's decision to attend the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics in Beijing.

U.S. lawmakers and activist groups have urged Mr. Bush not to attend the ceremony to protest China's human rights record and its policies toward Sudan regarding its war-torn Darfur region.

Groups such as Save Darfur Coalition and Reporters Without Borders voiced their disappointment today (Friday) saying the decision would make it more difficult for the United States to pressure Chinese authorities on human rights or its policies overseas.

On Thursday, a White House spokeswoman, Dana Perino, confirmed for the first time that Mr. Bush and first lady Laura Bush would attend.

Perino said Mr. Bush would also meet with Chinese officials during the games and discuss human rights and freedom of religion.