The US consulate in China was closed as tensions rose between the US and China. In retaliation for the US shutting down the Chinese consulate in Houston, China seized the US consulate building and lowered the American flag. The US mission in China posted a farewell video on Twitter. The consulate, opened in 1985 by then Vice President George Bush, was strategic for monitoring Tibet. The US State Department expressed disappointment in China's decision and aimed to continue outreach through other posts. The US had given China 72 hours to close the Houston consulate, citing espionage and theft allegations. Witnesses reported employees burning documents at the consulate.

What was the reason behind the closure of the US consulate in China?

• For renovation purposes

• Due to a natural disaster

• In retaliation for the closure of the Chinese consulate in Houston

• To improve diplomatic relations

Who originally opened the US consulate in China?

• President Jimmy Carter

• Secretary of State Henry Kissinger

• Vice President George Bush

• President Ronald Reagan

What action did China take after the US consulate closure?

• They opened a new consulate

• They seized the US consulate building

• They increased trade tariffs

• They held a diplomatic meeting

What was the US State Department's reaction to the consulate closure?

• They celebrated the closure

• They ignored the situation

• They were pleased with the decision

• They expressed disappointment

What were the allegations against the Chinese consulate in Houston?

• Environmental violations

• Illegal immigration activities

• Tax evasion

• Espionage and theft of medical research