Chinese scholar commits suicide after being questioned by U.S. law enforcement; Chinese consulate issues statement

Ask AI · What statement does the Chinese Consulate General make regarding this incident?

A spokesperson of the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chicago answers reporters’ questions regarding the suicide of a Chinese scholar after being summoned and questioned by U.S. law enforcement personnel.

Question: According to information, recently, a Chinese scholar was unfortunately found to have died by suicide the day after being summoned and questioned by law enforcement personnel of the U.S. side. What comment does the spokesperson have on this?

Answer: This case occurred at a U.S. university within the consular district of our mission. We are deeply grieved by this tragedy. The head of our mission has been instructed to make repeated representations, regarding this case, to the relevant departments of the U.S. government and the relevant universities. Our mission also contacted the family members of the person involved at the first opportunity, providing active assistance to help the family with follow-up matters.

For some time now, the U.S. side has broadened the concept of “national security,” engaged in political manipulation, and conducted groundless questioning and harassment of Chinese students and scholars, thereby infringing upon the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens, undermining the atmosphere of normal people-to-people exchanges between China and the U.S., and creating a serious “chilling effect.” The Chinese side strongly urges the U.S. side to fully investigate this case, make a responsible explanation to the family members of the victim and to the Chinese side, stop discriminatory law enforcement targeting Chinese students and scholars in the U.S., and stop fabricating all kinds of false cases.

The Chinese government attaches great importance to safeguarding the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens, including Chinese students studying abroad. Our mission has once again reminded students studying within the consular district to enhance their awareness of safety and to respond appropriately to law enforcement actions by the U.S. side. In the event of similar circumstances, they should contact the Chinese embassies and consulates in the U.S. immediately. Our mission will continue to firmly carry out the purpose of “diplomacy for the people,” and do everything possible to protect the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars within the consular district.

Source: Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chicago

Original title: “Spokesperson of the Consulate General of China in Chicago answers reporters’ questions regarding the suicide of a Chinese scholar after being summoned and questioned by U.S. law enforcement personnel”

Editor: Yan Jiaxin

Proofreader: Jixiang