In response to inquiries from the Post about the former president’s political comeback and the implications for the offices, the Hong Kong government stressed on Thursday it attached importance to trade and business ties with both mature and emerging markets.
“We therefore welcome interaction with the US’ trade and business sector,” a government spokesman said. “At the same time, we will continue to actively reach out to different places around the world to promote trade relationships and cultural ties, and tell the good stories of Hong Kong.”
Once enacted, the president will have 30 days to explain to Congress why Hong Kong’s three offices should remain open or lose their privileges. If the president opts for decertification, the missions will be required to close within 180 days.
Veteran political observer Sonny Lo Shiu-hing said passage of the bill would be tied to national security interests and Trump might use his power to shut down the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices (HKETO) to gain leverage against Beijing, as he was known for prioritising deal-making over ideological principles.
