Victor Gao, vice president of the Center for China and Globalization, has criticized the United States for adopting a confrontational stance against the Chinese mainland, likening it to the “Tonya Harding Syndrome.” Drawing parallels to the infamous 1994 figure skating scandal where Tonya Harding’s associate attacked rival Nancy Kerrigan to eliminate competition, Gao suggests that the U.S. is attempting to hinder China’s progress on the global stage.
“Do you remember the Tonya Harding scandal, which implicated her associate in whacking Nancy Kerrigan’s kneecap before a competition? The U.S., which wants to wipe China out of competition, also suffers from such ‘Tonya Harding Syndrome,'” Gao remarked.
He further warned that U.S. sanctions against the Chinese mainland are counterproductive. “Such actions will backfire,” Gao stated, emphasizing that cooperation, not confrontation, is essential for the prosperity of both nations and the global community.
Gao’s comments come amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and the Chinese mainland, with trade disputes and technological competition intensifying. Analysts note that policies aimed at suppressing the Chinese mainland’s development could have unintended negative consequences for the global economy.
Gao urged policymakers to consider the broader implications of their actions. “It’s important for the U.S. to recognize that attempting to undermine the Chinese mainland’s advancement not only harms bilateral relations but also destabilizes international markets,” he added.
Reference(s):
Scholar: China wants cooperation but U.S. has 'Tonya Harding Syndrome'
cgtn.com