By Guy Page
Following the recent visit of a Chinese diplomat to Vermont, the Chinese Consulate General in New York has issued a formal response to public comments made by Vermont Daily Chronicle readers questioning the nature and transparency of the visit.
The response takes the form of a letter to the editor in today’s Vermont Daily Chronicle.
Consul General Chen Li met with Vermont Lieutenant Governor John Rodgers and Montpelier Mayor Jack McCullough on June 26 during what the Consulate called a trip to “strengthen the friendship and foster exchanges between China and Vermont.” The Consulate confirmed that Chen also visited local businesses, though it did not disclose which companies he toured.
The visit prompted a flurry of questions and concerns from readers of the Chronicle, many focused on transparency, national security, and the political implications of growing U.S.-China ties.
“China is buying influence, and John Rodgers, not to mention the Vermont legislature, is for sale,” wrote reader and frequent commenter H. Jay Eshelman of Windham County. Another commenter, William Olenick, asked, “Why was a list of companies visited not provided to the press nor to the public?”
Other readers questioned whether the FBI was informed in advance of the visit, whether sensitive facilities such as IBM were included in Chen’s itinerary, and even speculated on personal relationships.
In a letter submitted to the Chronicle and published Monday, the Press Office of the Chinese Consulate General responded to the feedback, emphasizing China’s commitment to “constructive dialogue and mutual understanding.”
“The primary role of the Chinese Consulate General in New York is to promote communication and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation,” the letter said, noting that Vermont is one of 10 states within its consular district.
Addressing environmental concerns, the Consulate pointed to China’s recent afforestation efforts, claiming more than 6.6 million hectares of land were greened in 2024. The letter also cited a New York Times report on China’s investments in clean energy and its stated goal to become a global leader in renewables.
On trade, the Consulate offered a defense of economic cooperation: “From 2001 to 2024, U.S. goods exports to China grew by 648.4%,” while the U.S. enjoys a $28.9 billion services trade surplus. Vermont-made goods such as maple syrup and ski equipment, the letter said, are increasingly popular in China.
While the Consulate acknowledged differences between the two nations, it stressed the importance of dialogue over confrontation. “Trade disputes and tariffs serve no one’s interests,” it stated.
The letter ended with a diplomatic invitation: “We warmly welcome you to visit China and see the country for yourself. Our Consulate stands ready to provide any support needed.”