US move to close Chinese consulate sparks criticism

Shut down: A worker removing the sign at the entrance to the US consulate in Chengdu. — AFP

BEIJING: The abrupt US decision to close the Chinese consulate general in Houston has sparked concerns and widespread criticism, with several scholars and experts describing it as a “dramatic step” to deteriorate bilateral ties.

On Tuesday, the United States requested China to close its consulate general in Houston, the first one set up by China in the United States after the establishment of their diplomatic ties.