Speeches and Articles by U.S. Consul General James B. Cunningham

U.S. CONSUL GENERAL CUNNINGHAM ARRIVES IN HONG KONG

News Release

AUGUST 5, 2005, FRIDAY

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James B. Cunningham, the new U.S. Consul General for Hong Kong and Macau, arrived in Hong Kong with his family on Thursday, August 4, to begin his three-year assignment. During the next few weeks, Mr. Cunningham will meet with key government, legislative, business and community leaders to introduce himself and to hear their views about the issues and events shaping Hong Kong and Macau. He released the following arrival statement:

My family and I are delighted to be here and to take up our new responsibilities as America's representatives to Hong Kong. Hong Kong is one of the world's most dynamic and international cities, a community with a strong tradition of economic success and respect for political and individual freedoms. I will work diligently with the government and the people of Hong Kong to strengthen our already excellent cooperation on combating terrorism and proliferation, on promoting trade and opportunities for U.S. business, on countering global security and health threats, and on promoting the free market and democratic principles, which are so important to peace, stability and the success of this and future generations.

I am excited about the possibilities for Hong Kong and there is much interest in my country in Hong Kong's future. With its solid foundation of entrepreneurship, strong legal institutions, human freedom and market economy, Hong Kong has much to offer the region and the international community. The United States wants Hong Kong to succeed. We want the principle of "one country, two systems" to succeed as well, with a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong and the expansion of democracy.

I also look forward to representing the United States in Macau. Macau and the United States have an active and growing relationship. I intend to visit there soon and to work with Macau to advance our cooperation on a range of issues, and to promote our growing business relationship.

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