Japan persistent, seeks release of Astellas worker detained in China since March

A news agency had reported that Beijing was expected to decide soon on whether to formally arrest the Japanese businessman, whom it detained on suspicion of espionage.

Japan is continuing its efforts to seek the prompt release of an employee of Astellas Pharma who has been detained in China since March, Japan's top government spokesman said on September 21.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno was speaking at a press conference after Kyodo news agency reported on September 20 that Beijing was expected to decide soon on whether to formally arrest the Japanese businessman, whom it detained on suspicion of espionage.