Trump Says Political Prisoners Were Discussed in Xi Meeting
The Facts
- U.S. President Donald Trump revealed on Wednesday that he had spoken with Chinese leader Xi Jinping about the potential release of political prisoners held in China, during the announcement of a $200 billion energy investment agreement with South Korea.
- In response to a journalist's question about whether he had discussed the topic with Xi, and in particular the cases of U.S. citizen Min Zin and Hong Konger Jimmy Lai, Trump said he had "some very, very important discussions. Hopefully, fruitful discussions."
- Zin, a scholar and founder of the Institute for Strategy and Policy — Myanmar, was arrested at Kunming Airport in Yunnan province, China, on June 3 for allegedly endangering Chinese national security. The U.S. subsequently designated him as wrongfully detained.
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The Spin
Anti-China narrative
The wrongful and unlawful detentions of Min Zin, Jimmy Lai and others are reflective of China's belligerence. Incapable of tolerating any differing opinion, the Chinese regime weaponizes the law to crack down on dissenting voices in a blatant violation of free speech and expression. China must release these political prisoners in accordance with international norms.
Pro-China narrative
Contrary to the claims of the U.S. and others, China has every right to detain and punish those who threaten to undermine the country's national security. As for Jimmy Lai and Min Zin, their transgressions against the Chinese state are clear as day. Instead of inflaming diplomatic relationships by condemning Beijing, Washington ought to encourage others to observe China's laws more closely.