Sarah Hanson-Young (SA, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

I find it extremely disappointing that a world leader such as Ms Kadeer is being denied a welcome through a simple motion in this chamber today. There are no reflections beyond her desire to speak for her people—10 million Uygurs who are systematically discriminated against as a minority in China. I find it abhorrent that this government cannot even be bothered to allow a motion that simply welcomes her to this country. She's here on official business and, just like any other community leader or world leader, she deserves the acknowledgement of the chamber, of the parliament and of the government. I understand that Ms Kadeer asked for an audience with our Minister for Foreign Affairs, but that has fallen on deaf ears. I urge the foreign minister, Julie Bishop, to arrange for some type of meeting to occur. (Time expired)