Minister denies reports of Sarkozy Olympic boycott

France’s human rights minister tonight denied a report that quoted her as saying President Nicolas Sarkozy would boycott the Olympic opening ceremony unless China releases political prisoners and starts talks with the Dalai Lama.

In a statement, Rama Yade said Le Monde newspaper had misquoted her when it said she listed necessary “conditions” for Mr Sarkozy’s attendance at the August 8 ceremony in Beijing.

“The word ’conditions’ was never used,” Ms Yade said in a statement.

Le Monde had quoted Ms Yade as saying, “Three conditions are essential for him to attend: an end to violence against the population and the liberation of political prisoners; light shed on the events in Tibet; and the opening of a dialogue with the Dalai Lama.”

Mr Sarkozy spokesman Frank Louvrier declined to comment on Ms Yade’s interview. However, the president has said himself that he cannot rule out the possibility he might boycott the opening ceremony if China continues its crackdown in Tibet.

Asked last month about his plans, Mr Sarkozy said he could “not close the door to any possibility.”

Violent protests in Tibet, the most serious challenge in almost two decades to China’s rule in the region, have forced France, other governments and human rights campaigners to re-examine their approach to the August games.