China Calls for Stronger US Ties Through Youth Exchanges

Diplomacy in Action: Beijing Pushes for People-First Approach

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi doubled down on boosting grassroots connections between China and the U.S. this week, urging Washington to 'provide more support' for cross-cultural exchanges. The appeal came during a high-profile meeting with leaders of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations (NCUSCR) in Beijing.

Youth Takes Center Stage

Echoing President Xi Jinping's November 2023 announcement about inviting 50,000 young Americans to China through 2028, Wang emphasized that 'the future [of relations] depends on the youth.' This comes as both countries seek to rebuild engagement after years of strained ties.

The NCUSCR Bridge

Committee leaders Evan Greenberg and Stephen Orlins praised China's exchange initiatives, calling the youth program 'very popular.' They reaffirmed their commitment to being mediators in what they describe as 'the world's most important bilateral relationship.'

Navigating Rough Waters

While celebrating progress, Wang criticized the U.S. approach: 'Seeing China as a strategic competitor creates unnecessary roadblocks.' Both sides agreed that sustained dialogue – not confrontation – remains key to global stability.

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China urges U.S. to do more to facilitate people-to-people exchanges

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