Memo to Xi: There is no downside to freeing Jimmy Lai

Releasing Jimmy Lai could be seen as a strategic move for Xi Jinping, allowing him to demonstrate a willingness to engage with international norms regarding human rights and freedom of the press. This could mitigate some of the global criticism directed at China, particularly in the context of its tightening grip on Hong Kong. However, it remains to be seen whether such a gesture would be perceived as genuine or merely a tactical maneuver.