AsiaNews, the news agency of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions, has shown great courage in requesting the release of three bishops and six priests who are currently in the hands of the Chinese police or in prison, without having received a trial.
The agency made this request in a letter of appeal addressed to China’s President Hu Jintao and to the Chinese ambassador in Italy, Ding Wei.
“Their release – AsiaNews stated – could be a gesture of friendship and support towards Catholics and human rights activists, as well as a sign of sincere good wishes for Chinese New Year.
The beginning of Chinese New Year has always been celebrated through a consolidation of family and friendship relations, giving an even brighter outlook for the future.