By Alimat Aliyeva

Washington and Beijing conducted a secret prisoner exchange last month, Azernews reports.

American pastor David Lin, who has been serving a life sentence in China since 2006, was exchanged for an unnamed Chinese citizen detained in the United States.

On September 16, American media reported Lin's release, but details about the exchange remained under wraps. This event highlights the complex dynamics between the two superpowers, where diplomatic negotiations often occur behind closed doors.

Interestingly, this exchange comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and China over various issues, including trade disputes and human rights concerns. It raises questions about the potential for future negotiations and whether this could signal a thawing of relations, even if temporarily.

Furthermore, such exchanges have historical significance, reflecting a willingness on both sides to engage in diplomacy when it comes to their citizens. The secrecy surrounding the exchange underscores the sensitive nature of US-China relations, where public perceptions can significantly influence diplomatic efforts.