The growing tensions between the United States and China were emphasized even more when US Secretary of State Mike Pomepo gave a speech on Thursday evening Swedish time.

Pomepo delivered a speech in the city of Yorba Linda in California the day after the news that the United States was closing the Chinese consulate in Houston, Texas. The reason for the shutdown was stated to be espionage and advocacy campaigns by China.

"The truth is that our policy - like that of other free nations - revived China's failing economy, only to see Beijing bite the hand that gave birth to it," Mike Pompeo said during the speech.

"More mistrust"

The Foreign Minister also said that China's military had become "stronger and more threatening" and that the approach to the country should be characterized by more mistrust.

"We must bring about a change (...) because Beijing's actions threaten our people and our prosperity," said the Foreign Minister.

72 hours to shut down

Tensions between the countries have risen sharply recently due to the corona pandemic and the new security law introduced in Hong Kong.

The announcement to close the consulate came on Tuesday. The diplomats had 72 hours to shut down the business. The action was condemned by China. 

"China is urging the United States to immediately withdraw its erroneous decision," said Wang Wenbin, a spokesman for China's foreign ministry and threatened retaliation.