The Chinese Consul General of Houston Cai Wei said on Friday that the friendship between the Chinese and American people will prevail, despite the deliberate escalation of tensions by a few U.S. politicians.
The U.S. on Tuesday abruptly ordered China to close its consulate in Houston, Texas, within 72 hours.
In an open letter to people in the U.S. southern states, Chinese Consul General of Houston Cai Wei said that the consulate had always stood firmly with the people in the region, particularly in challenges like COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters like hurricanes.
"I arrived in Houston in early August 2019 to take up my new position. So far, I have visited all 8 states in the consular district." Cai said in his letter.
He recalled his visit to "Flying Tigers" Memorial in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, which he said is a testament of profound friendship formed by the Chinese and American people when they fought against Fascism.
He also recalled he was invited to attend a high-profile celebration event in Georgia during this Chinese New Year, on which Chinese and Americans sent best wishes to each other.
"In the future, no matter where I am, I will continue to support the friendly exchanges and cooperation between China and the people in the southern United States." He said in the letter.
He added that both China and the U.S. are great countries, saying that cooperation benefits both and confrontation hurts both.
"The bilateral exchanges between the Chinese government and the southern region of the United States will not stop, and services to overseas Chinese will not stop." Cai stressed.
He said the Chinese embassy in the United States will make proper arrangements for friendly cooperation and consular services.
