By: The Trek News Desk
US President Donald Trump has stated that he personally urged Chinese President Xi Jinping to consider the release of Hong Kong-based pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai, who was recently convicted under the city’s controversial national security legislation.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump expressed concern over Lai’s condition, describing the situation as deeply troubling. He said he raised the matter directly with President Xi on humanitarian grounds, noting that Lai is elderly and suffering from health problems.
Jimmy Lai, 78, is a British national who has been behind bars since December 2020. He is expected to be formally sentenced early next year and could face a life term in prison if given the maximum punishment under existing charges.
The United Kingdom has also intensified calls for Lai’s immediate release. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper sharply criticised the court’s ruling, describing it as politically driven and aimed at silencing dissent. She said Lai has been punished simply for exercising his right to free expression in a peaceful manner.
Earlier this week, a Hong Kong court found Lai guilty of colluding with foreign entities. The verdict was welcomed by Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, who claimed Lai’s actions undermined national interests and harmed the well-being of the city’s residents. In contrast, human rights organisations have condemned the judgment, calling it a miscarriage of justice.
The UK government has confirmed that China’s ambassador was summoned to convey Britain’s stance in strong terms. Cooper said it was distressing that the rights of a British citizen were being violated in Hong Kong.
China’s foreign ministry has rejected international criticism of the trial, insisting that such comments amount to an attack on Hong Kong’s judicial system. Beijing maintains that the national security law is necessary to ensure stability, while rights groups argue it is being used to suppress opposition voices.
In addition to the national security conviction, Lai has also been found guilty under a separate colonial-era law related to the publication of seditious material. His prolonged detention and deteriorating health have drawn growing concern from international leaders and advocacy groups. His family, particularly his son Sebastien Lai, has warned that given his age and medical condition, his life could be at serious risk if he remains in prison.
Source: News Agencies
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