In response to media enquiries about a story published by the Washington Post quoting so-called sources that the United States (US) has decided to bar the Chief Executive (CE) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) from attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting (AELM), the HKSAR Government today (July 28) pointed out once again that 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 of the leader of Hong Kong, China.

     APEC has its standing rules and conventions for hosting meetings. According to the Guidelines for Hosting APEC Meetings, leaders of APEC member economies will be invited to attend the AELM. A host has the responsibilities to issue letters of invitation to APEC leaders and facilitate their attendance of the AELM.

     APEC meetings do not belong to any country or economy, and APEC has its rules and conventions. Any host will have the responsibilities to invite members to participate according to these rules and conventions. The HKSAR Government has publicly stated the above position on multiple occasions.

Ends/Friday, July 28, 2023
Issued at HKT 10:39

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