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 You are in: Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs > Bureau of Public Affairs > Bureau of Public Affairs: Press Relations Office > Press Releases (Other) > 2006 > February 
Taken Question
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
February 27, 2006
Question Taken at the February 27, 2006 Press Briefing

China - Gao Zhisheng, Hunger Strikes

Question:  What is the U.S. reaction to a hunger strike in China where activists are protesting the recent beating of lawyer Gao Zhisheng? Have we talked to Chinese officials regarding this matter?

Answer:   We are deeply concerned by reports that a number of activists who are participating in a hunger strike in support of Mr. Gao have been detained. We raised these detentions with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier this month and continue to follow closely these reports. Individuals should not be detained for the peaceful expression of political views.

We also are concerned by the continued harassment and detention of lawyers representing activists in China. Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Barry F. Lowenkron raised this issue during human rights discussions in Beijing last week. He said the mistreatment of lawyers seeking to represent their clients undermines China’s efforts to promote the rule of law.

2006/227


Released on February 27, 2006

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