Congressman John Moolenaar Chairman of the Select Committee on the CCP | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman John Moolenaar Chairman of the Select Committee on the CCP | Official U.S. House headshot
Chairman John Moolenaar has expressed concern over the participation of U.S. officials in a forum organized by the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF) in Hong Kong. The foundation is linked to the Chinese Communist Party and was established by Tung Chee-hwa, former Chief Executive of Hong Kong, known for his efforts to introduce strict national security laws.
Moolenaar criticized the forum, stating, "The CUSEF forum is not an open and honest exchange of ideas. Instead, it is an event that seeks to legitimize the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) ongoing crackdown in Hong Kong." He highlighted that the event coincides with trials of pro-democracy advocates like Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong, who are being prosecuted for defending freedoms previously enjoyed.
He further expressed disappointment over American officials attending the event, adding, "I hope in the future they will send a clear message that the deterioration of Hong Kong’s autonomy, rights, and freedom cannot be overlooked."
The 2023 CUSEF Forum featured John Lee, Hong Kong's current Chief Executive, who is under U.S. sanctions.