Consular protection is not baby-sitting for citizens overseas

CONSULAR PROTECTION is of great significance to protect the legal rights and interests of citizens overseas, but there have been recent incidents in which Chinese tourists overseas have misused the consular protection system. The release of a draft regulation on consular protection services is to be welcomed. Beijing News comments:

On Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a draft regulation on consular protection and aid to solicit public opinion, with the aim of accelerating legislation to safeguard the safety and legal rights of Chinese citizens overseas and prevent consular protection from being misused.

As more and more Chinese people live, work, study and travel aboard, a sound regulation that stipulates the particulars of consular protection has become necessary.

Consular protection is not a baby-sitting service that will take care of all the requirements of Chinese citizens overseas. The important principle of consular protection is “running out of local remedies”, which means a Chinese embassy will get involved only after a problem fails to be resolved under the framework of local laws and regulations.

Chinese embassies should provide up-to-date information and suggestions for the safety and appropriate behavior of Chinese citizens, make representations with the local authorities when necessary, as well as seek fair and proper outcomes.

The staff of Chinese embassies in foreign countries should also abide by China’s laws and regulations and the international agreements that China has signed, and respect local laws, religions and traditions.

Some Chinese people misunderstand the meaning of consular protection and seek consular support for every little difficulty, even a flight delay. Chinese citizens should realize their rights but also be aware of their obligations, and avoid misusing consular protection.