Chen arrives at NYU

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After a 19 month house arrest, an escape, an international diplomatic drama and about a 13 hour flight -- Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng and his family are finally in the U.S.

Greeted by throngs of supporters at New York University, Chen thanked the U.S. for its help, and the Chinese government for its continued restraint.

(SOUNDBITE) (Mandarin) CHEN GUANGCHENG, SAYING:

"I am very gratified to see that the Chinese government has been dealing with the situation with restraint and calm, and I hope the central government will be more liberal and push for deeper reform and to keep the justice and equality of society and earn the respect and trust of the people."

Chen's story grabbed international attention after he escaped from house arrest and sought refuge in the U.S. embassy in Beijing. Chen had been guarded for his views against the Chinese's government's one-child per family policy.

Chen and his family were allowed to leave China on a fellowship from New York University.

Supporters lavished praise on the dissident.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) REGGIE LITTLEJOHN, PRESIDENT, WOMEN'S RIGHTS WITHOUT FRONTIERS, SAYING:

"This is the most exciting day of my life. Chen Guangcheng is the Gandhi of China. He is up there with Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, one of the great personalities of the 21st century and it is a great honor and blessing that we have him in the United States."

Chen is set to study law during his fellowing at NYU.

Julie Noce, Reuters