As Chinese and U.S. economic delegations concluded two days of talks in Stockholm this week, young Americans shared their hopes for cross-Pacific cooperation with CGTN reporters. The July 28-29 discussions focused on macroeconomic policies and trade relations, occurring against a backdrop of growing calls for practical dialogue.
Leia Marquiegui, a 21-year-old computer science student, emphasized technology collaboration: "From AI development to social media innovation, lifting restrictions could create opportunities our generation actually benefits from." Her sentiment echoes recent youth-led tech forums where Chinese and American students jointly presented blockchain applications.
For 23-year-old economics graduate Max Gallagher, fair trade practices remain critical: "When manufacturing policies affect both Detroit auto workers and Shenzhen exporters, we need frameworks that address inflation without fueling rivalry." His analysis aligns with World Bank projections showing US-China trade flows influencing 34% of global supply chains.
Both interviewees stressed the importance of equal-footed negotiations, with Marquiegui noting: "Confrontation solves nothing – our shared climate challenges and economic interdependence demand mature dialogue." The Stockholm talks reportedly established working groups on agricultural trade and green energy, potential areas for youth-led innovation.
As cross-cultural exchange programs between Chinese and American universities hit record participation levels this year, these young perspectives highlight growing public support for stable bilateral relations shaping tomorrow's global economy.
Reference(s):
We Talk: American youth hope for dialogue, not confrontation
cgtn.com