A Chinese diplomat, Huang Ping, serving as the consul general of China’s New York Consulate, continues to perform his role despite conflicting statements from New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Biden State Department. Hochul expressed support for Ping being expelled from New York following his involvement in an indictment tied to one of her former aides. However, the State Department contradicted this by stating that Ping had merely reached the end of a scheduled rotation and was still in his position. Ping himself, through a consulate spokesperson, confirmed that he is carrying out his duties and will leave as planned after completing his term.
Ping, who has been the consul general since 2018 and is known for praising the Chinese Communist Party, recently posted photos celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China with Chinese Americans and students. China expert Michael Sobolik criticized the State Department for not taking action against Ping and allowing him to remain in his post, especially considering Ping’s coordination with Linda Sun, a former aide to Hochul who was recently arrested on charges related to FARA violations and money laundering. The unsealed indictment revealed Sun’s close working relationship with Ping and her efforts to block representatives of the Taiwanese government from meeting with New York officials.
Among the allegations in the indictment, it was revealed that Sun interfered with a speechwriter for Hochul who wanted to mention the Uyghur situation in China in a Lunar New Year message but was overruled by Sun. Ping also appeared to dismiss the speechwriter’s concerns, highlighting the influence of Ping’s propaganda in shaping the narratives of American public officials. Sun’s actions were reportedly rewarded with luxury gifts, while Sun’s husband engaged in millions of dollars’ worth of transactions to support Chinese business activities, implicating Ping in facilitating these relationships.
Despite the controversy surrounding Ping’s ties to Chinese officials and his alleged role in influencing New York politicians, he continues to be active in various events and gatherings in the state. Recent social media posts show Ping attending the China Institute’s Blue Cloud Gala and celebrating the 90th birthday of a prominent scholar in New York. Ping’s interactions with Democratic politicians, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Sen. Chuck Schumer, have raised concerns about the extent of Chinese influence in American politics and diplomacy.
Sun’s attorney has expressed concern over the charges brought against her, calling them inflammatory and the result of an overly aggressive prosecution. The unfolding case involving Sun, Ping, and other Chinese officials underscores the complex relationships between foreign diplomats and American government officials, with implications for national security and political integrity. Despite the controversy surrounding Ping’s position and actions, he remains in his role as consul general of China’s New York Consulate, prompting calls for greater scrutiny from authorities and media outlets to prevent further exploitation of American interests by foreign powers.
