Anthony Malkin, brother-in-law of Senator Richard Blumenthal, has engaged extensively with Chinese firms and diplomats, hosting numerous consuls general and leasing office space in New York City. His activities, including a China business desk initiative, have sparked concern about potential conflicts of interest and foreign influence. Senator Blumenthal’s office denies any involvement in Malkin’s business dealings, emphasizing his support for regulations against conflicts of interest.

In a notable investigation by Fox News Digital, it has been revealed that Anthony “Tony” Malkin, brother-in-law of Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut, has significantly engaged with Chinese firms as part of his real estate management of Empire State Realty Trust, Inc. Malkin has been hosting diplomats connected to the Chinese Communist Party at his office for over 15 years and has actively sought out Chinese companies to lease office spaces in New York City.

Malkin, a Harvard alumnus, was featured in a 2011 profile by China Daily, which outlined his efforts to attract Chinese enterprises amidst an influx of Chinese investors in the U.S. commercial real estate sector. The article emphasized Malkin’s successful leases with several Chinese businesses, including state-owned enterprises such as Air China and media outlets like People’s Daily Online, which has ties to the Chinese government.

Despite some tenants no longer retaining space at his properties, Malkin’s dealings with companies such as Li & Fung Ltd. have been noteworthy. Li & Fung, which reportedly occupies over 149,000 square feet within the Empire State Realty Trust portfolio, is headed by Victor Fung, a figure with strong ties to the Chinese political framework. Fung has previously held a significant position in the Chinese government’s advisory body, indicative of the close relationships fostered within Malkin’s leasing strategy.

Malkin has attempted to establish a dedicated “China business desk” to cater to the demands of these firms, despite an Empire State Realty Trust spokesperson refuting claims that Malkin actively pursued Chinese tourism. Notably, Malkin’s interactions with the Chinese government have involved various Chinese consuls general, further complicating the ties between his real estate dealings and China’s influence in the region.

Senator Blumenthal’s office has firmly stated that he has no involvement in Malkin’s real estate transactions, emphasizing that his family relationship does not influence his political or legislative activities. Blumenthal’s spokesperson underscored that the Senator advocates against conflicts of interest, including the ownership of individual stocks by members of Congress and their spouses.

The coverage also highlighted Malkin’s collaborations with the Chinese Consulate General in events such as the lighting of the Empire State Building to celebrate the Lunar New Year—demonstrating his active role in cultural exchanges between the U.S. and China. Despite facing questions regarding the implications of these relationships amid rising concerns about Chinese influence, Blumenthal’s office maintained that the Senator supports greater transparency and regulation against potential conflicts related to his family’s business activities.

Experts caution about the implications of such interactions, asserting the necessity for vigilance against any undue influences by the Chinese Communist Party within U.S. businesses. The inquiry continues to unfold, with the potential ramifications of these connections drawing public and political scrutiny in the ongoing discourse surrounding national security and international relations.

In conclusion, the revelations surrounding Anthony Malkin’s involvement with Chinese businesses as facilitated by the senator’s family ties raise significant questions about ethics and influence in U.S.-China interactions. While Senator Richard Blumenthal distances himself from these dealings, the reported lengths of engagement with the Chinese Communist Party’s representatives highlight ongoing concerns about foreign influence in American commerce and politics. The implications of such relationships demand careful examination as discussions about transparency and conflict of interest continue to evolve.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com

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