On June 7, 2023, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng delivered a keynote speech at the welcome event hosted by the U.S.-China Business Council.

Ambassador Xie said that upon arrival at D.C., he talked to Chinese and American media, and the video was posted on twitter. Many American netizens left their comments. One said this, “I hope you find some allies; there are a few hiding in the darkness afraid of being crushed.” Indeed, many American friends want to speak up for China-U.S. cooperation, but hesitate to do so. They are afraid of being “politically incorrect”.

Ambassador Xie said that a good overall environment makes doing business a lot easier. If the China-U.S. relationship gets worse, the business community can hardly stay unaffected. We are all stakeholders. None of us shall sit idly by. Every one of us needs to take actions, speak up for free trade and open market, as this serves our common interests and the stability of global industrial and supply chains. Ambassador Xie called on the business community to stay fair and pragmatic, be committed to cooperation with China, and say no to politicizing economic issues. He encouraged the businesses to help faster and better resolve issues such as increasing direct flights, easing travel advisories and facilitating visa procedures. These will bring more positive energy to the bilateral relationship, and help both peoples live a better life.

Ambassador Xie said that whenever time permits, he would love to meet and talk with the business community. The more, the better. But too often, he is preoccupied with those difficult issues in our bilateral relationship. He wished he could have 48 hours for a day. That’s why he counts on the support of the business community for stabilizing the bilateral relationship at an early date, so that we can focus more on cooperation, and build up greater momentum for the China-U.S. relationship.