As a security move to prevent anti-government protests and terrorist attacks, the Chinese Ministry of Culture announced on 26 April 2008 that China will tighten up controls over cultural activities and products ahead of the Summer Olympics on 8-24 August.
The announcement by Vice Minister of Culture Zhao Weisui, carried by the official Chinese news agency Xinhua, confirms earlier reports that Beijing police had ordered the cancellation of several major events, including a popular music festival in May. The popular MIDI Music Festival planned for May has been postponed until October.
“The ministry ordered tighter supervision over entertainment venues and cultural activities to ensure neither major security accidents nor mass incidents will happen before or during the Olympics,” Xinhua said.
"Any artistic group or individual who have ever engaged in activities which threaten our national sovereignty will not be allowed in," the Chinese Ministry of Culture stated
Jamyang Kyi, prominent Tibetan singer and a song-writer, internet writer and feminist activist, was arrested on 1 April 2008 and is held without charges by Chinese authorities
The Chinese Ministry of Culture announced on 26 April 2008 that China will tighten up controls over cultural activities and products ahead of the Summer Olympics
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