U.S. Relations With the People's Republic of China (2008)

U.S. Department of State

Press Statement
Sean McCormack, Spokesman
Washington, DC
December 11, 2008

Harassment of Chinese Signatories to Charter '08

The United States is deeply concerned by reports that Chinese citizens have been detained, interrogated and harassed as they prepared to commemorate Human Rights Day and the 60th Anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We are particularly concerned about the well being of Liu Xiaobo, a prominent dissident writer, who remains in the custody of authorities. We call on the government of China to release Liu Xiaobo and cease harassment of all Chinese citizens who peacefully express their desire for internationally-recognized fundamental freedoms.

2008/1033

Released on December 11, 2008