US Congressman Robert Andrews Writes to Secretary of State Colin Powell Concerning Mr. Charles Li's Detention in China

(Clearwisdom.net)

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