The case of Chinese-born American seismologist Youlin Chen, who has been detained in China for nearly two years on espionage charges, has become another source of diplomatic tension between Beijing and Washington.

Chinese-born U.S. citizen and seismologist Youlin Chen, who has been detained in China for nearly two years on espionage charges, has emerged as a new point of friction between Beijing and Washington.

The U.S. government has classified Chen as wrongfully detained and called for his release, while China's Foreign Ministry rejected that description, insisting that the country's judicial system is handling the case in accordance with Chinese law.

Beijing rejects US demands

Washington has identified Chen's release as one of its diplomatic priorities.

Beijing, however, has shown no indication of altering the judicial process despite public appeals from the United States.

Chinese officials maintain that allegations involving espionage and national security are being handled strictly within the country's legal framework.

China accuses US of interfering

Some U.S. lawmakers and civil society organizations have portrayed Chen's detention as politically motivated.

Chinese authorities rejected those claims, arguing that such statements constitute interference in China's domestic judicial affairs.

National security at the center of the case

One of the key aspects of the case is Chen's previous involvement in research analyzing seismic signals from North Korea's nuclear tests.

The research was funded by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory.

Chinese authorities have not disclosed the specific evidence underlying the espionage allegations but have stated that the case concerns national security.

Diplomatic tensions likely to continue

While some U.S. officials argue that Beijing is using the case for political purposes, China rejects the accusation and insists that its courts operate independently under national law.

Chinese officials have also maintained that the country will not compromise on issues related to national security and sovereignty.

The case is expected to remain on the agenda during future high-level contacts between the United States and China. (ILKHA)