Mao Ning profile photo Photo: official website of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Through the unremitting efforts of the Chinese government, three Chinese citizens wrongfully detained by the US have returned safely to China, which once again shows that never ever will China give up on its citizens and the motherland will always have their back, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday in response to a question on reports that China and the US released personnel from prison on both sides.

Mao emphasized that China remains firmly opposed to the US's politically driven suppression and persecution of Chinese nationals and will continue taking all measures necessary to defend the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese nationals.

Mao also noted that among those sent back from the US is a fugitive who fled to the US many years ago and has now been repatriated to China. "No one can escape justice, and no place on earth can be a safe haven forever for crime." 

The Chinese government will continue its work to bring back fugitives and recover their illegal proceeds, and will not rest until they are all brought to justice, said Mao. 

The US State Department on Wednesday reportedly adjusted its travel advisory for China after the White House announced China had released three Americans. The travel advisory was updated to a Level 2 "exercise increased caution," down from a Level 3 "reconsider travel." The updated advisory also removed the "D" notation, which indicates a risk of wrongful detention for US nationals, and it removed language in the advisory related to wrongful detention, according to The Hill. 

Mao said that China noted the adjustment made by the US and believes that it is conducive to the normal mutual visits between the people of the two countries.

"We oppose any move that can have a chilling effect. We hope that the US will do more to facilitate cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries," said Mao. 


Global Times