Chinese and U.S. consular officials met in Beijing on Tuesday to discuss issues related to people-to-people exchanges and the protection of their citizens abroad, marking a step towards improving bilateral relations.
Wu Demin, deputy director-general of the Department of Consular Affairs at China’s Foreign Ministry, held talks with Angela Kerwin, deputy assistant secretary of the Bureau of Consular Affairs at the U.S. State Department. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in safeguarding the safety and legitimate rights of Chinese and American citizens overseas, according to a statement from China’s Foreign Ministry.
During the discussions, the Chinese side emphasized the importance of the United States adjusting its travel advisory for China, urging for changes to be made promptly. Beijing also called on Washington to cease what it described as unjustifiable harassment, interrogation, and deportation of Chinese citizens.
The dialogue between the consular officials comes amid ongoing efforts to stabilize and improve relations between the two nations. Both sides expressed a willingness to facilitate people-to-people exchanges, which have been affected by recent geopolitical tensions and the global pandemic.
The meeting signifies a potential thaw in consular cooperation, highlighting the mutual interest in ensuring the welfare of their citizens abroad and fostering better understanding through increased exchanges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
