President Bush has faced conflicting pressures on his trip to view the Summer Olympics in Beijing.

On one hand, he did not wish to embarrass China as it hosts the Olympics. Yet there is always the need to address China's human rights abuses so long as they occur.

The president chose to deliver the criticism of China from Thailand. In Bangkok Wednesday, Mr. Bush said that the United States stands in "firm opposition" to China's mistreatment of its own people.

While commending China's economic reforms, he expressed the wish that Beijing will allow greater freedom for the Chinese people.

"We speak out for a free press, 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," Mr. Bush said.

"And we press for openness and justice not to impose our beliefs, but to allow the Chinese people to express theirs," he continued.

Mr. Bush said that the administration has been on good terms with Chinese leaders — a relationship that has built rapport. The two countries have formed alliances over Taiwan, North Korea's nuclear program and economic issues, he said.

But there is a time to speak forthrightly. He declared: "America stands in firm opposition to China's detention of political dissidents, human rights advocates, and religious activists."

"America and our partners are realistic, and we are prepared for any possibility," Mr. Bush said. "I am optimistic about China's future. Young people who grow up with the freedom to trade goods will ultimately demand the freedom to trade ideas."

The president predicted: "Change in China will arrive on its own terms and in keeping with its own history and traditions. Yet change will arrive."

While pointing out that China has the right to chart its own course, the American president sent a message to Beijing that he felt needed to be said.

He spoke the truth.