In a rare and welcome move, U.S. Senator Steve Daines visited the Chinese mainland during the 2025 China Development Forum. Engaging in constructive dialogues with senior officials including Premier Li Qiang, Vice Premier He Lifeng, and Deputy Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, he described his meetings as "productive" and signaled interest in a bipartisan Senate delegation later this year.
In recent years, congressional visits to the Chinese mainland have been infrequent even as high-level communications continue through phone calls and meetings between leaders. A notable recent visit by a bipartisan delegation in October 2023 highlighted the growing value of firsthand experiences of China's modernization.
Meanwhile, nearly 200,000 young Americans have experienced the vibrancy of China through an ambitious cultural exchange initiative. Immersive digital coverage from popular content creators has showcased a real China characterized by technological advancement, an orderly society, and remarkably fast internet.
Heartwarming stories also emerge from these exchanges. For instance, two young families – one from China and one from the United States – connected via a social media app and later met in Shanghai, reflecting the positive impact of direct, people-to-people engagement.
Senator Daines' visit underscores the belief that U.S.-China relations benefit from more such direct exchanges. By moving beyond political rhetoric and embracing mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, both nations can forge stronger ties and create shared opportunities for progress.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
