The recent release of American pastor David Lin from a Chinese prison has raised hopes for the freedom of two other US citizens currently detained in China. Lin, who had been imprisoned since 2006 on charges of contract fraud, was designated wrongfully detained by Washington and had been the subject of diplomatic efforts for years. Upon his release, the US State Department expressed gratitude and welcomed Lin’s return to the United States to reunite with his family after nearly 20 years.
In addition to Lin, China is also holding businessman Kai Li and another detainee, Mark Swidan, who are both considered to be wrongfully detained by the United States. President Joe Biden and other officials have been urged to use diplomatic talks with Chinese leaders to push for the release of these individuals, emphasizing that their cases are being handled according to the process of law in China.
While China maintains that these cases are being handled legally, US officials are hopeful that Lin’s release will pave the way for further negotiations to secure the freedom of Swidan and Li. The recent meeting between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi in Beijing is seen as a positive step towards resolving these ongoing issues. A congressional hearing on Wednesday will further address the situation of US citizens detained in China, keeping the spotlight on this important diplomatic issue.
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