WASHINGTON, D.C.
The United States voiced concern over Chinese government's decision to ban government employees and students from fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
"We are deeply concerned by reports of discrimination against and restrictions on ethnic and religious minorities in China, including Uighurs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan," State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki said Tuesday in a daily press briefing.
On July 2, local administrations in the far western Muslim-majority region of Xinjiang banned government employees and students from fasting during Ramadan amid tightened security measures in the restive region.
"We urge Chinese authorities to take steps to reduce tensions, uphold China’s international commitments to protect religious freedom and other universal human rights," Psaki said.
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