China, Sept 18 (Alliance News):David Lin, a US pastor who was wrongfully detained in China for nearly 20 years, has been released and returned to the United States, according to the US State Department.
Lin, 68, was imprisoned in 2006 after helping construct an unapproved church building. He was sentenced to life for contract fraud, a charge he denied.
Lin’s release marks a key diplomatic achievement for the Biden administration, which has prioritized securing the freedom of Americans wrongfully detained in China.
Efforts continue to free businessmen Kai Li and Mark Swidan, who remain in Chinese custody.
The US government, alongside organizations like ChinaAid, had been advocating for Lin’s release, citing human rights concerns.
Lin had turned his imprisonment into an opportunity to share his faith, even starting a prayer group among fellow prisoners.
Lin’s release was welcomed by US politicians, who emphasized the need to continue efforts to free the remaining detainees.
