Beijing’s top diplomat in Hong Kong has laid down the scope of engagement for the new US consul general in the city, urging her not to interfere in local matters and the country’s internal affairs, while playing a constructive role in the development of China-US relations.
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Cui Jianchun, the commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong, also told newly appointed US Consul General Julie Eadeh that Washington should lift sanctions concerning the city during her courtesy call on Tuesday.
“Commissioner Cui urged the US to lift sanctions on Hong Kong, and asked US Consul General Julie Eadeh to perform her duties in Hong Kong in a manner consistent with her diplomatic status, and not to interfere in Hong Kong affairs and China’s internal affairs,” his office said.
Cui also urged Eadeh to play a constructive role in developing China-US relations and those between her country and Hong Kong, as well as in promoting the city’s prosperity and stability, according to the statement.
It added that Eadeh said she would lead the US consulate “to advance a positive agenda and promote exchanges and cooperation” between the United States and Hong Kong.
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Cui’s move to lay down the scope of engagement for Eadeh appeared more assertive compared with past practice, when former commissioner Liu Guangyuan received a courtesy call from Eadeh’s predecessor, Gregory May, in 2022.