The diplomatic row between the United States and China over how to treat blind Chinese human rights activist Chen Guangcheng appears to have come to an end with the U.S. issuing him, his wife Yuan Weijing and his two young children visas on May 19 and their subsequent arrival in the U.S. the same day. But this does not mean the issue has been completely resolved: That will happen when China grants Mr. Chen the right to return to China and resume his activities there.

Mr. Chen will conduct research on China's criminal justice system and other subjects as a fellow at New York University's U.S.-Asia Law Institute. After arriving in New York, he said, "I am grateful the Chinese government dealt with the situation with restraint and calm." He also expressed hope that the Chinese government will endeavor to establish "justice and equality of society." He hopes to return to China after his stay in the U.S.

Mr. Chen, who taught himself law, championed human rights for the disabled and investigated forced sterilization and late-term abortions under China's one-child policy. He received the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2007.