Trump Says Political Prisoners Were Discussed in Xi Meeting

Are China's detentions a crackdown on free speech or a lawful defense of national security?

Published 4 hours ago

Trump Says Political Prisoners Were Discussed in Xi Meeting

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Above: Donald Trump and Xi Jinping in the White House Oval Office in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 24. Image credit: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images

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.

Donald Trump on U.S. State Department

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.

OCMFA Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs