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AI Weiwei Urges West to Reflect on Human Rights

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ai Weiwei (Chinese dissident) urges the West to reflect on its human rights record before criticizing China.
He says Western leaders, including Keir Starmer (UK Prime Minister), should not raise human rights during business visits.
Ai cites Western handling of Julian Assange's case as an example.
Despite criticisms, he calls Starmer's four-day visit to China rational and practical, saying it would benefit Britain and be welcomed in China.

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Story summary

Ai Weiwei (Chinese dissident) urges the West to reflect on its human rights record before criticizing China.
He says Western leaders, including Keir Starmer (UK Prime Minister), should not raise human rights during business visits.
Ai cites Western handling of Julian Assange's case as an example.
Despite criticisms, he calls Starmer's four-day visit to China rational and practical, saying it would benefit Britain and be welcomed in China.