Hong Kong forum on US-China ties aims to create ‘optimistic’ tone ahead of Apec summit

This week, a significant forum on US-China relations is taking place in Hong Kong. The organisers of this event aim to foster an 'optimistic' atmosphere ahead of the Apec summit in San Francisco, where the leaders of the two nations are anticipated to meet. The Hong Kong Forum on US-China Relations, scheduled for Thursday and Friday, will include video remarks from ambassadors of both countries, former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, and two Nobel Peace Prize laureates.

James Chau, president of the China-United States Exchange Foundation, stated that the timing of the forum was intentional to help establish a hopeful tone before the Apec summit. He also mentioned that the speakers invited are 'established figures who transcend political office' and believe in fostering healthy relations between nations. The United States President, Joe Biden, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, are expected to meet on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco, commencing on November 15.

Hong Kong's finance chief, Paul Chan Mo-po, will represent the city at the Apec summit as city leader John Lee Ka-chiu is unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict. When questioned about a recent proposal by US lawmakers to sanction 49 city officials, judges, and prosecutors for their application of the Beijing-imposed national security law, Chau acknowledged the 'very difficult relationship' over the past few years, which only underscores the importance of the forum organisers' work.