U.S. State Department Issues Public Announcement on PRC

PR9924E | Date: 1999-05-11

Due to the accidental bombing of the People's Republic of China (PRC) Embassy in Belgrade, Serbia-Montenegro by NATO-coalition forces, there have been a number of demonstrations in the PRC. Although these demonstrations have not targeted tourist facilities or private Americans traveling or residing in the PRC, we cannot discount the possibility that this may occur. The potential exists for further demonstrations and reaction against American citizens and interests.

The Department of State urges U.S. citizens in the PRC to review their security practices, maintain a low profile, stay alert to the changing situation, and avoid demonstrations.

As a security precaution, all official U.S. government personnel in the PRC have been instructed to remain at home until the situation stabilizes. The U.S. Embassy in Beijing and the U.S. Consulates General in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Chengdu were closed on Monday, May 10, and Tuesday, May 11, 1999, and similar action may have to be taken in the future as necessary. The U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong remained open May 10 and May 11.

American citizens seeking emergency assistance should contact the embassy or nearest consulate general by telephone. Persons with business to conduct at the embassy or one of the consulates general after Tuesday, May 11, are advised to check in advance.

For further information on travel to the PRC, please consult the Department of State Consular Information Sheet for the People's Republic of China.

This public announcement expires on May 14, 1999.

Department of State travel information and publications are available at Internet address: http://travel.state.gov. U.S. travelers may hear recorded information by calling the Department of State in Washington, D.C. at 202-647-5225 from a touch-tone telephone, or receive information by automated telefax by dialing 202-647-3000 from their fax machine.