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US urges China to end "arbitrary detention"

WASHINGTON, Dec 11 (KUNA) -- The US Department of State voiced concern over the detention of former Canadian diplomat by the Chinese authorities and urged China to "end all forms of arbitrary detention." "The United States is concerned by these reports," the Department's Deputy Press Secretary Robert Palladino told reporters on Tuesday.
"We urge China to end all forms of arbitrary detention, and to respect the protections and freedoms of all individuals under China's international human rights and consular commitments," he added.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was quoted as saying, "We are aware of the situation of a Canadian detained in China." "We have been in direct contact with the Chinese," and Ottawa was taking this matter "very seriously," Trudeau added.
The news could further complicate an already tense diplomatic standoff over the arrest of a senior Chinese tech executive in Vancouver, Canada last week. (end) rsr.gb