Two Chinese citizens, Yunqing Jian and Zunyong Liuwere accused by the United States For the alleged smuggling of Fusarium graminearum, a fungus that is considered a potential agroterrorist weapon. According to the accusation, both would have illegally entered this microorganism to the country, which has aroused great concern in biological security.
The smuggling would be related to research carried out at the University of Michigan, where scientific studies are carried out that could have motivated the unauthorized entry of the fungus. The defendants face several positions, including conspiracy, smuggling, presentation of false statements and fraud in the use of visas, which further complicates the legal situation of both.
According to the FBI, Jian had received Chinese government financing To study this pathogen in your country, while on your devices they also found Evidence of its belonging and affinity to the Communist Party.
This case has generated an intense debate on national security and the protection of the integrity of scientific research in the United States. The authorities seek to strengthen controls to prevent hazardous biological materials being illegally introduced and highlight the risks they represent for public health and agri -food stability of the country.
The US accusations to China
During a press conference, the Attorney General expressed his deep concern about the alleged actions of these Chinese citizensamong them a faithful member of the Chinese Communist Party. “These people are accused of illegally introducing a fungus considered a ‘potential threat of agroterrorism’ in US territory, with the apparent intention to use a laboratory from the University of Michigan to carry out its objectives,” he said.
On June 3, the State Department He denounced that China has been using its universities as platforms to obtain sensitive information in order to strengthen its military and intelligence capabilities. This situation led to an exhaustive review of student visas, in addition to the revocation of permits for Chinese citizens studying in the United States.
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Gentileness: BBC
The Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, said that “the United States will not allow the Chinese Communist Party to take advantage of the country’s academic institutions to steal intellectual property, technologies or to enhance its military power, carry out intelligence activities or silence its opponents.” For his part, Bruce emphasized that “all who are in the country with a visa must understand that this process is taken with maximum seriousness; the verification is constant and each visa approval is a matter of national security.”
China’s response
The Chinese government strongly rejected the decision adopted by the White House, qualifying it as a measure discriminatory and for political purposesdisguised as ideological and national security concerns. From Beijing, they expressed that this action represents an escalation in diplomatic tensions and a setback in bilateral relations.
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Mao Ning, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, warned that the initiative seriously affects the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students, interferes with the usual educational and cultural exchanges, and reveals the contradiction between American discourse on freedom and openness and their real policies. In addition, he argued that these decisions further deteriorate the International image and credibility of the United States. Various renowned universities also expressed concern about the impact of these restrictions.
What is the Fusarium graminearum
It is a fungus that causes the “spike rot”, A disease that affects wheat, barley, corn and rice, and is responsible for losses of billions of dollars each yearworldwide. Also, those who come into contact with him and his toxins usually present Vomiting pictures, liver damage and even reproductive defects.
Source: Ambito
