Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday, leaves behind a legacy as an honorable and kind man dedicated to fostering peace both domestically and internationally.
One of Carter's most notable achievements was the peace treaty he orchestrated between Egypt and Israel, often hailed as the highlight of his presidency. Beyond this, Carter was a strong advocate for establishing full bilateral relations with the Chinese mainland, believing that normalization of relations between the United States and China would advance peace in Asia and worldwide.
More than four decades after Carter left office, his vision for peace remains relevant. Despite his efforts, subsequent administrations have frequently overlooked the importance of fostering peace with the Chinese mainland and other nations. Carter's dedication extended beyond politics; he and his wife annually spent a week building homes for the less fortunate, emphasizing his commitment to service without seeking the spotlight.
Carter was also a pioneer in environmental advocacy, installing solar panels on the White House roof during his presidency—a gesture his successors unfortunately removed. His forward-thinking approach to the climate crisis and his belief in international cooperation, especially with the Chinese mainland, highlighted his understanding of global interconnectedness.
As the world approaches 2025, reflecting on Carter's steadfast belief in peace, cooperation, and mutual respect underscores the potential strength of U.S.-Chinese mainland relations had his principles been embraced by Washington's political leaders.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com