Hong Kong unlikely to send other officials to APEC summit after John Lee reportedly barred: Beijing advisor

It is unlikely that Hong Kong will send other government officials to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November after the U.S. reportedly barred Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu from attending, said prominent Beijing adviser Lau Siu-kai. 

Lau’s remark came a day after the Washington Post reported the latest White House decision on Thursday, citing three unidentified American officials familiar with the matter. 

Yet, it is still being determined how Lee will be barred from attending the summit; whether he will not receive an invitation, if he will be banned from crossing the U.S. border, or through other means. 

This morning (Fri), the government issued a statement and said: “The US is obliged to fulfill its basic responsibilities as a host to follow the rules and usual practice of APEC and invite the CE to attend the meeting in his capacity as the leader of Hong Kong, China.” 

Lau, a consultant to the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macau Studies, believes it is unlikely that Hong Kong will send other government officials to the summit. 

Otherwise, the move will leave an impression that China and Hong Kong accept and submit to U.S. unilateral sanctions. 

Lau also pointed out that the U.S. will hold its presidential election next year. President Joe Biden’s cabinet probably doesn't wish to grant exemption to Lee, who is under U.S. sanctions for “cracking down on civil liberties in the city,” which may affect Biden’s re-election run. 

Lau added it is very likely that the U.S. will bar Lee from going to the summit in the end. He explained the U.S.’ political needs and local laws usually override international standards and duties. 

The anti-China and Hong Kong atmosphere is running high within the U.S. as well, Lau noted. 

Lau continued that Beijing may fight back and impose sanctions on Washington in accordance with the recently-passed Foreign Relations Law. 

Also read: US to bar Hong Kong leader John Lee from summit, report says