Contemporary Sino-US relationship remains a complex combination of interdependence and contention on many fronts. Exemplified by the recent remarks of Vice President Pence, awareness among US leaders of China’s serious challenge to American hegemony has prompted a reevaluation of Sino-US relationship, stoking fears of a new Cold War.

On the education front, the US remains the most desirable choice for Chinese students studying abroad. Beyond simply contributing to the American economy, Chinese students who receive an education rooted in critical thinking and American values possess the intellectual firepower necessary for catalyzing the development of civil society and human rights in China. However, the more than 350,000 Chinese students in the US, of which approximately 43% are enrolled in science and engineering programs, have spurred an increase in anxiety about the potential for IP theft or the transfer of sensitive cutting-edge technologies. To simultaneously assuage fears and protect national interests, the federal government seem to consider a stricter visa policy towards Chinese student, which will do no good to both sides.

Regarding the appeal of both sides, it will be advisable for the US to leverage its comparative advantage in education. To be specific, the US should fund programs at American universities to encourage prospective international students from China to study the liberal arts in the US by providing scholarships for Chinese students in these fields. The US should also provide funds for universities with international students, to be earmarked for cultural community-building activities that bring together domestic and international students (i.e. theater trips or discussion groups). This will maximize the transformational power of the liberal values, critical-thinking skills, and people-to-people connections cultivated by America’s world-class liberal arts programs to catalyze social and political change in China.

On the other hand, Chinese students ought to always adhere to academy integrity and fully take advantage of the abundant resources provided by American universities. There is no doubt that Chinese students are of the most intelligent and diligent ones. However, it is easy to plunge into misery once in a brand-new environment, like the plagiarism scandals every year, which may become the source of Americans’ accusation of IP theft and further influence the next generations. Some may argue that these trivial matters are too insignificant to be taken into account within the scope of international relationships. Nevertheless, it is indeed every individual that is actually implementing the grand national policy and impact its possible adjustments. Therefore, through efforts from both sides, not only can education exchange benefit Chinese students and better China society, but also it offers a channel to export diverse values to the world stage.
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To move forward a single step, I would propose a Lattice Strategy for the big picture of contemporary Sino-US relationship, that is, to establish grounds for transparent competition and pragmatic partnership through a whole-of-society approach that links citizens, academics, private firms, and governments. Under this Strategy, both countries will reassert norms for responsible international leadership, encourage reciprocity and responsibility, and maximize opportunities.