US lawmakers have called on the Biden administration to intensify efforts to secure the release of American citizens deemed to be unjustly detained in China. During a recent hearing, Representative Chris Smith and Senator Jeff Merkley, both co-chairs of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), emphasized the urgency of prioritizing these detentions. Representatives Zach Nunn and Michelle Steel supported this plea, highlighting the cases of specific detainees including Kai Li, Mark Swidan, Nelson Wells Jr., and Dawn Michelle Hunt. During the hearing, Rep. Smith stated, “The release of American citizens should be the first thing President Biden mentions to Communist Party leader Xi Jinping whenever they talk.” He further insisted that these names should be continually brought up in any diplomatic engagement with Chinese officials.
The push for action follows recent developments, notably the US State Department’s confirmation earlier this week that American pastor David Lin, who the US had alleged was wrongfully detained since 2009, has been released. Lin had been imprisoned on charges of “contract fraud” after attempting to establish a Christian training center in Beijing. His release coincided with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s visit to Beijing for high-level talks with Chinese officials.
This issue remains a critical point of contention in US-China relations, as legislators urge that the release of these Americans must be a recurring topic in diplomatic discussions. Further details on the commission’s hearing and the specific detainee cases can be found on JURIST.