China has called on the United States to cease unwarranted scrutiny of Chinese students and ensure their lawful rights during academic stays, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated Wednesday. The remarks followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent pledge to permit 600,000 Chinese students to study at American universities.
“We hope the U.S. will translate President Trump’s welcoming words into concrete actions,” Guo emphasized, highlighting concerns over reported harassment and deportations. He stressed that educational exchanges serve as “bridges for mutual understanding” between nations.
The appeal comes amid heightened U.S.-China friction over trade, technology, and security. Over 370,000 Chinese students currently study in the U.S., contributing significantly to academic institutions and cross-cultural engagement. Analysts note that student mobility remains a barometer for broader bilateral relations.
Business leaders and academics have long advocated for sustained educational collaboration, citing its role in fostering innovation and global problem-solving. However, recent U.S. visa restrictions on STEM students from China have raised concerns about the politicization of academia.
As discussions continue, stakeholders await clearer protocols to balance national security priorities with the rights of international scholars – a challenge shaping 21st-century diplomacy.
