US Congressman Robert Andrews Writes to Secretary of State Colin Powell
Concerning Mr. Charles Li's Detention in China
February
8, 2003
Dear
Secretary Powell,
I write to you
again concerning the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners, as recent events
have made this clear case of human rights even more pertinent to the United
States government.
On January 22,
2003, a United States citizen by the name of Charles Li was detained at
Guangzhou Airport in China. Mr. Li being charged with sabotaging Chinese
televisions and radio broadcasts, accusations which he vehemently denies. It
has been suggested by Mr. Li himself, along with many other Falun gong practitioners
throughout the U.S., that he is simply being detained because of his
involvement with the Falun Gong movement.
Clearly, we can
not allow the People's Republic of China to mistreat a citizen of our nation.
For this reason, I ask that you take steps to ensure that Mr. Li is treated
justly, and that he receives a fair trial, if there is sufficient evidence to
warrant judicial proceedings. If it is determined, either by the PRC or through
our own investigations, that Mr. Li has not committed any crimes, we must
intervene on his behalf, and ensure that he is returned to the United States
safely and promptly.
At this crucial
juncture, it is absolutely essential that we send a clear statement to the
Chinese government that the United States will not accept their blatant
disregard for the rights of Falun Gong practitioners. Thank you for your
attention to this most urgent matter.
Sincerely,
Robert Andrews
Member of Congress