Initiative for U.S.-China Dialogue on Global Issues

Over the course of our U.S.-China Student-to-Student Dialogue, I had the privilege of engaging in meaningful conversations with students from both countries. These dialogues provided a safe space for us to tackle challenging topics and forge connections, allowing us to break down barriers and foster a deeper understanding between our nations. In this blog post, I will share some key discussions we had and the insights gained during our meetings.

During one of the sessions, we delved into the intriguing subject of foreign aid and development, with a specific focus on the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). It became clear that the motivations behind providing aid can differ significantly based on the political system or regime of the donor country. Some countries may wield loans as a political tool, while others prioritize promoting morals and human rights. However, what truly matters is how aid policies are implemented and whether they genuinely address the unique needs of recipient countries.

What caught our attention was the Chinese model of foreign aid, which places a strong emphasis on building essential infrastructure like roads and bridges. Through its south-south cooperation strategy, China has been able to make a significant impact by understanding the specific challenges faced by recipient countries. However, we also acknowledged that China's hesitance to work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) might stem from criticisms of its human rights record.

Our discussions then shifted to the transformation of the political landscape in China under the leadership of President Xi Jinping. It was intriguing to explore the concept of "head of state diplomacy," where the president holds influence over both internal and external policies. We recognized that China's foreign policy decisions often stem from its domestic policy agenda and the presence of competing interests.

In another session, we turned our attention to the Global Development Initiative (GDI). Some viewed it as a response to criticism of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vast infrastructure and investment program aimed at enhancing regional cooperation. While we acknowledged that the GDI had distinct origins and a focus on green development, we also recognized the potential for hidden motives that often plague foreign aid initiatives.

The group's opinions on the GDI varied, highlighting the need for a more inclusive approach that involves civil society. We expressed a desire to better understand the Chinese perspective on the GDI, suggesting that institutions like Peking University, known for their liberal values, could provide valuable insights into the initiative's underlying motivations and objectives.

One of the most promising aspects of our dialogue was the exploration of clean energy collaboration between the United States and China. We recognized the shared environmental challenges and the potential to build trust and strengthen relations through joint efforts in this area. By promoting clean energy technologies and solutions, we believed that our two nations could contribute to global sustainability. However, we acknowledged the challenges posed by a zero-sum mindset, where positive developments are often seen as threatening the balance of power.

Overall, our U.S.-China Student-to-Student Dialogue proved to be an enriching experience. The diversity of perspectives and the willingness to challenge assumptions allowed for meaningful and nuanced discussions. While differing opinions arose regarding the GDI, we recognized the initiative's potential to foster sustainable development and cooperation among nations. As the dialogue continues, I remain hopeful that our conversations will deepen our understanding of each other's viewpoints, laying the foundation for trust, respect, and fruitful collaboration between the United States and China.

Charles Gatnik (SFS’23) is studying in the Walsh School of Foreign Service studying international politics with a concentration in international security.