The U.S. State Department on Thursday rejected a warning from China’s top diplomat in Hong Kong aimed at Julie Eadeh, the newly appointed U.S. consul general, Reuters reports.

Cui Jianchun, China’s senior envoy in the city, said he met Eadeh on Tuesday to “lodge solemn representations” regarding her conduct since assuming the post. He urged her to adhere to international norms, avoid contact with “anti-China forces,” and refrain from interfering in domestic affairs, including national security cases in Hong Kong. Cui cited a set of “Four Don’ts,” covering meetings with prohibited individuals, collusion with anti-China actors, supporting activities that undermine Hong Kong’s stability, and interference in legal matters.

Responding, a senior State Department official said U.S. diplomats represent the country and are tasked with advancing U.S. interests worldwide, “which is standard practice for diplomats around the world, including in Hong Kong.”

Eadeh, who began her tenure in August, previously drew the ire of Chinese authorities in 2019. At the time, Chinese media criticised her for engaging with student leaders amid protests in Hong Kong, publishing photographs and personal details that Washington described as the acts of a “thuggish regime.”

The latest exchange comes amid a delicate phase in U.S.-China relations, as the Biden administration navigates trade discussions and prepares for high-level meetings with Chinese leadership.