Rubio Urges China to Release Jimmy Lai and Political Prisoners

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States is seeking a positive response from China regarding repeated appeals for the release of jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai and other political detainees. Rubio made the remarks during an interview broadcast on Thursday, highlighting growing international concern over human rights and press freedom in Hong Kong.

Jimmy Lai, the founder of the now-shuttered pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, has become one of the most high-profile figures arrested under Hong Kong’s national security law. The 77-year-old media entrepreneur has been detained for several years and faces multiple charges linked to alleged collusion with foreign forces and pro-democracy activities. Western governments and human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized the case, arguing it undermines freedom of speech and independent journalism in the region.

Rubio emphasized that the United States continues to raise Lai’s case directly with Chinese officials and remains hopeful Beijing will respond positively. He also noted that Washington is advocating for the release of other individuals imprisoned for political reasons, signaling that human rights remain a key issue in U.S.-China relations.

The Jimmy Lai case has drawn widespread global attention, especially among press freedom advocates who view his detention as symbolic of declining civil liberties in Hong Kong since the implementation of the national security law in 2020. Critics argue the legislation has been used to silence dissent, target activists, and restrict independent media operations.

China and Hong Kong authorities, however, maintain that the law is necessary to preserve national security and social stability. Officials insist that all legal proceedings are being handled according to the law and reject accusations of political persecution.

The United States and several allied nations continue to monitor developments closely as international pressure grows over the treatment of political prisoners and journalists in Hong Kong.