2009 Press Release

Press Release

Public Affairs Section

U.S. Embassy, Beijing

Tel: 8531-4339  Fax: 8531-4040

Chinese website: http://embassyusa.cn

English website: http://eng.embassyusa.cn                            

New U.S. Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China Arrives in Beijing

August 22, 2009

Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., the new U.S. Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, his wife and family arrived in Beijing on August 21 to begin his assignment.  During the next few weeks, Ambassador Huntsman will meet with key Chinese government officials, as well as business and community leaders to introduce himself and hear their views about issues and events shaping the U.S.-China bilateral relationship.

Ambassador Huntsman released the following arrival statement:

My wife Mary Kaye, my children and I are delighted to be in Beijing to take up our new responsibilities as representatives of America in China.  I am deeply appreciative of the confidence that President Obama has placed in us and for his strong support for the work of the U.S. mission – the Embassy and our five consulates – as we endeavor to develop the kind of peaceful, cooperative and comprehensive bilateral relationship that is so essential to the prosperity and security of our two great countries.  As President Obama said when he nominated me to this post, China will play a crucial role in confronting all the major challenges facing Asia and the world in the years ahead.  The United States intends to engage China across the board to address these common challenges. 

At the top of my priorities will be helping lay the foundation for sustainable growth in the region and the global economy.  This will mean more jobs for Americans and Chinese, choice for consumers, opportunities for U.S. business, expanded market access and investment, increased educational and cultural exchanges and overall better mutual understanding of our two societies.  I also look forward to expanding our bilateral cooperation on climate change, energy and the environment; enhancing global security and non-proliferation programs; and improving public health.  My long service as Governor of Utah, Deputy U.S. Trade Ambassador, and U.S. Ambassador to Singapore and my background in business and the private sector, I hope, have prepared me for this new role.  I look forward to working with all of you on this important work in the years ahead.

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