US President Donald Trump says Chinese President Xi Jinping indicated that the release of imprisoned Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai is unlikely. The remarks come after a high-stakes summit in Beijing focused on political and diplomatic issues, with Trump addressing questions about the fate of political prisoners in China.
According to Trump, Xi would “strongly” consider the release of a pastor connected to an underground church, which Trump raised in the context of prisoners. Trump did not provide details on timelines or any formal commitment, and the comments are presented as Xi’s signals rather than confirmed actions.
Jimmy Lai, a prominent media figure and Hong Kong pro-democracy advocate, has been imprisoned in China-linked legal proceedings that have drawn international attention. The statements highlight the contrast, as described by Trump, between potential consideration for one prisoner category and a less favorable outlook for Lai’s release.
The reports reflect Trump’s account of what Xi communicated during their meeting, rather than an independently verified decision or announcement by Chinese authorities.
