Hong Kong Attempts to Reset US Relations While Condemning Pence's Comments on Jimmy Lai

On January 21, Hong Kong sought to reestablish its diplomatic relationship with the newly inaugurated President Donald Trump, although the attempt was overshadowed by conflicting statements regarding controversial remarks made by former Vice President Mike Pence. Chief Executive John Lee articulated a desire for a "good starting point" to Mend Hong Kong's ties with the United States, which had deteriorated during the US-China trade conflict that marked Trump's initial presidency.

Lee highlighted the numerous commonalities and shared interests between Hong Kong and the US, expressing optimism for renewed cooperative efforts. Despite this, a government official quickly countered his sentiments by publicly disapproving Pence's recent comments about jailed media figure Jimmy Lai. Pence had previously attended an event in Hong Kong where he allegedly suggested that China should release Lai as a gesture of goodwill.

The Hong Kong administration criticized Pence's remarks as having malicious intent and as a form of unjust interference in local legal proceedings. They asserted that such statements undermined Hong Kong's judicial integrity and its commitment to national security, cautioning US politicians against using business engagements as a medium for political maneuvering in a misguided effort to question the rule of law in the region.