(Clearwisdom.net) In the afternoon of February 19, 2002, officials from the U.S. State Department met with over 20 Falun Gong practitioners who went to Beijing to appeal. During the meeting, the officials learned in depth about what these practitioners encountered while they were detained in China. The Chinese police abused these practitioners both mentally and physically, and even looted their personal belongings.

The officials expressed their admiration for the courage of these practitioners. In the meantime, officials emphasized that the practitioners did not do anything wrong and assured them that the U.S. government will firmly support them and protect their human rights.