People-to-people ties between the United States and Hong Kong have remained strong despite China and his country’s disagreements on “so many issues”, America’s outgoing top diplomat in the city has said.
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US Consul General Gregory May also said he wished to see Hong Kong retain its unique characteristics when he visited in the future in his farewell video posted on the consulate’s social media page on Friday.
“Even though the US, Hong Kong and mainland Chinese governments disagree on so many issues, Hong Kong people have just been tremendously friendly and welcoming,” he said in the video.
“I am ending my assignment here convinced that the people-to-people bonds between Americans and Hongkongers are as strong as ever.”
May also praised Hongkongers for being hard-working and resilient, and said it was their spirit that made the city so special.
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He summed up his three-year term in the city, saying he had made many friends, explored Hong Kong’s temples, festivals, beaches and local eating spots, and enjoyed learning Cantonese, although he did not speak as fluently as he had hoped.
