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US Urges China to Free 8 Yanks

Pro-Tibetan demonstrators to be released next weekend

By Kate Rockwood, Newser Staff

Posted Aug 24, 2008 2:33 PM CDT

(Newser) – Washington is seeking the release of eight US protesters held by China during the Olympics, Reuters reports. Two were collared Thursday for posting a "Free Tibet" banner near an Olympic event; six others were members of Free Tibet Reporters detained the day before. Beijing vows to release all eight next weekend. This marks the first time during the Olympics that American protesters have been held for more than a day.

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Pro-Tibetan protesters rally on eve of Beijing Olympics. Eight American pro-free Tibet protesters have been detained. (Getty Images)

A protestor, masked by a Tibet flag, gathers with demonstrators calling for Tibetan independence. Protesters dotted the globe during the Beijing Olympics. (Getty Images)

Pro Tibet activists unfurl a "Free Tibet" banner and Tibetan flags on top of a Beijing Olympics billboard, next to China Central Television headquarters in Beijing Friday, Aug. 15, 2008. (AP Photo)

A Pro Tibeten banner is seen on top of a Beijing Olympics billboard, next to China Central Television headquarters in Beijing, Friday, Aug. 15, 2008. (AP Photo)

Pro-Tibet protesters wave Tibet's flags and march through a Tokyo street, on the first day of the 2008 Summer Olympics games in China, Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008. (AP Photo)

Pro Tibet activists unfurl a "Free Tibet" banner and Tibetan flags on top of a Beijing Olympics billboard, next to China Central Television headquarters in Beijing Friday, Aug. 15, 2008. (AP Photo)

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We are disappointed that China has not used the occasion of the Olympics to demonstrate greater tolerance and openness. - statement made by the U.S. Embassy

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US Urges China to Free 8 Yanks