Can the Hong Kong Forum Make US-China Relations Better?

In the heart of Hong Kong, a unique forum seeks to set the stage for optimism in the realm of international relations. The Hong Kong Forum on US-China Relations, a two-day gathering, aspires to sculpt a constructive atmosphere in the lead-up to the prestigious Apec summit in San Francisco. With an impressive lineup featuring video addresses by esteemed diplomats, political leaders, and Nobel Peace Prize laureates, this forum stands as a beacon of diplomatic hope.

James Chau, the President of the China-United States Exchange Foundation, underlines the deliberate timing of this event, closely aligning it with the Apec summit. “The [forum’s] timing was deliberate, so that we could help craft a tone, hopefully an optimistic one … before Apec begins,” Chau elaborates.

What to Expect

Anticipation runs high for a meeting between the leaders of the United States and China during the upcoming Apec summit. President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping are set to engage in critical discussions on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, scheduled for November 15 in San Francisco.

Notably, Hong Kong’s participation in the summit will be marked by the presence of Finance Chief Paul Chan Mo-po. City leader John Lee Ka-chiu, owing to prior commitments, won’t be attending.

The forum’s deliberations are unafraid to confront ongoing challenges, including a proposal by US lawmakers to impose sanctions on 49 city officials, judges, and prosecutors for their role in enforcing the Beijing-imposed national security law.

Co-organizer James Chau views these challenges as emblematic of a “very difficult relationship” that has unfolded over the past few years. Such complexities underscore the vital role that forums like this play in fostering communication.

Keep Reading

Who’s Coming?

Eminent speakers include diplomats such as the Chinese Ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, and his American counterpart, Nicholas Burns. Alongside them will be notable figures like former Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand Bhokin Bhalakula, former Foreign Secretary of India Shyam Saran, former US Ambassador to China Max Baucus, former US trade negotiator Charlene Barshefsky, and President of the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Mogens Lykketoft.

The forum serves as a platform to acknowledge the evolving dynamics in the US-China relationship. It harnesses newfound optimism to propel dialogue and collaboration. Established by Hong Kong’s inaugural Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa in 2008, the forum is committed to identifying common interests between Beijing and Washington.

In a recent shift of leadership, John Zhao was named Chairman of the foundation, succeeding Tung Chee-hwa, who now holds the honorary title of Chairman Emeritus. This year’s forum marks a return to a fully physical format, a testament to its resilience amid challenging times.

Katherine S

1/4 German, 3/4 Malaysian. I write, follow and monitor closely political news happening in Malaysia, and other happening news in the ASEAN region. Newswriter for the best ASEAN news website - The Asian Affairs.

Recent Posts

Korea and UAE Forge New Paths in Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs)

With an eye toward healthcare and biotechnology especially, the Republic of Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have lately…

November 5, 2024

Netflix Becomes a Surprising Hub for Shojo Anime Fans

Long prized for its romantic themes, nuanced characters, and emphasis on personal development, shojo anime has become an unexpected Netflix…

November 5, 2024

Indonesia Extends Sales Ban to Google Pixel Following Non-Compliance with Investment Requirements

Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry has implemented a ban on the sale of Google Pixel phones within the country, adding to…

November 4, 2024

One Piece Unveils Revamped Fish-Man Island Saga with New Opening Theme as Anime Prepares for 2025 Return

One Piece offers a new take of the legendary Fish-Man Island arc, so fans are in for a nostalgic trip…

November 4, 2024

Johor to Pioneer Premium Salaries for Skilled Workers as Malaysia’s First State Initiative under Johor-Singapore SEZ

Particularly in areas related to the forthcoming Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), Johor is poised to become the first state…

November 4, 2024

China-Japan Diplomatic Groundwork Laid Ahead of Anticipated Xi-Ishiba Summit in South America

China and Japan are getting ready for what would be a historic meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and freshly…

November 4, 2024

This website uses cookies.

Read More