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EXCLUSIVE REPORT
The brother-in-law of a prominent Democratic senator has been instrumental in maintaining relationships with the Chinese Communist Party while expanding his family’s real estate portfolio. A review of his activities reveals how Anthony Tony Malkin has repeatedly hosted Chinese diplomats and facilitated office space leases for various Chinese companies in New York City.
Anthony Malkin serves as the chairman and CEO of Empire State Realty Trust, Inc. This significant holding company boasts nearly 600 tenants and oversees 732 residential units. Over the past 15 years, Malkin has welcomed multiple consuls general from the People’s Republic of China to his New York office and has reportedly visited China to attract businesses to lease office space.
A profile published by the Chinese state media outlet China Daily in 2011 highlighted Malkin’s efforts to recruit Chinese tenants in New York. It mentioned his aspiration to benefit from the growing Chinese investment in U.S. commercial real estate. Malkin’s family ties to Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut have added a layer of scrutiny to his business dealings.
Malkin’s Strategic Engagements with Chinese Companies
The profile showcased Malkin’s achievements in securing leases with key Chinese companies, including the state-owned Air China LTD and PCCW-HKT DataCom Services Ltd, a major telecommunications firm based in Hong Kong. Notably, People’s Daily Online, which is linked to the propaganda network of the CCP, had previously leased space at the Empire State Building from Malkin.
An Empire State Realty Trust spokesperson clarified that People’s Daily Online vacated its office nearly a decade ago. Furthermore, the spokesperson maintained that Air China occupies a modest 3,000 square feet within a much larger office space portfolio of 7.8 million square feet.
Business Connections and CCP Influence
Li & Fung Ltd, a multinational firm based in Hong Kong, is among the largest tenants of Empire State Realty Trust. This company is chaired by Victor Fung, who has well-documented ties to the CCP. Victor Fung’s longstanding involvement with the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and current vice chairmanship of the China-United States Exchange Foundation positions him as a crucial figure in CCP business initiatives both domestically and abroad.
Financial data obtained indicates that Li & Fung occupies more than 149,000 square feet at the Empire State Building, with leases set to continue into 2028, yielding an annual rent exceeding $8.3 million.
Michael Sobolik, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, stated that the Chinese Communist Party persistently seeks ways to integrate into U.S. businesses and society, highlighting the challenges this poses for American interests.
Recruitment Strategies and Diplomatic Engagement
To navigate increasing tenant demands, Malkin reportedly established a dedicated China business desk and initiated partnerships with Chinese tour groups. However, this initiative has drawn criticism from insiders who claim that Malkin denied knowledge of these efforts. An ESRT spokesperson contended that any insinuation regarding these recruitment strategies was mischaracterized.
In recent developments, newly appointed Chinese Consul General Chen Li has reaffirmed his work relationship with Malkin. Photos posted on social media highlight their collaboration in promoting friendly ties between the United States and China, including public celebrations like the building’s lighting ceremony during the Lunar New Year.
Political Implications and Responses
Senator Blumenthal’s office has firmly distanced the senator from Malkin’s activities. A representative emphasized that the senator does not manage or control the operations of the real estate company in question, further stressing that neither he nor his wife could influence Malkin’s business dealings.
Additionally, Blumenthal has been a vocal advocate for policies dealing with potential conflicts of interest, including supporting bans on Congress members and their spouses from holding individual stocks.
A Look at Past Connections
Analyzing Malkin’s history with Chinese diplomats, it is evident that he has fostered relationships with several Chinese consuls general over the years. For example, during Chen’s predecessor Huang Ping’s tenure, Malkin established rapport while participating in various cultural events at the Empire State Building.
Chen Li’s recent engagement with Malkin and the Empire State Realty Trust marks a continuation of these diplomatic connections. In prominent public events, including the building’s lighting ceremony, Malkin has often been showcased alongside Chinese officials, fostering goodwill and cultural exchange.
Legislative Watches and Future Considerations
In light of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding CCP influence within American business, some lawmakers are advocating for legislative measures that would limit foreign influence in U.S. corporations. These discussions are increasingly relevant as potential violations of national security are evaluated.
Furthermore, Malkin’s influence within the real estate sector raises questions about the broader implications of foreign involvement in essential American institutions. As calls for transparency and accountability grow louder, many are eager to see how elected officials will address these intricate relationships moving forward.
Preserving American Interests While Engaging Diplomatically
As this complex narrative unfolds, the necessity for vigilance regarding foreign business relationships remains paramount. With the intertwining of business and diplomacy highlighted through Malkin’s endeavors, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between fostering international connections and safeguarding national interests. While Malkin’s business acumen is evident, the implications of his ties to Chinese firms warrant careful examination in the evolving landscape of U.S.-China relations.
