A new survey by CGTN and Renmin University reveals a striking consensus among Chinese and American youth: mutual benefit and cultural exchange are vital to stabilizing bilateral ties. The poll, which surveyed 4,003 individuals aged 18–45 across both nations, underscores a shared belief in dialogue over division despite economic competition.
Trade Relations: Collaboration Trumps Rivalry
Respondents overwhelmingly prioritized cooperation in addressing trade challenges. Over 87% of Chinese participants and 78.5% of Americans agreed mutual benefit resolves disputes. Both groups described economic relations as a mix of “cooperation and competition,” though perspectives diverged slightly: 66.4% of Chinese emphasized collaboration, while 22.7% of U.S. respondents leaned toward competition.
Shared Priorities for Collaboration
Youth in China expressed keen interest in partnerships on artificial intelligence (54%), e-commerce (41.5%), and healthcare (38.1%). Americans favored joint efforts in manufacturing (53%), clean energy (36.4%), and environmental protection (33.2%). Both groups acknowledged each other’s strengths: Chinese respondents praised U.S. advancements in biotechnology and AI, while Americans highlighted China’s manufacturing and consumer electronics leadership.
Cultural Bridges Build Understanding
Over 75% in both nations agreed popular culture fosters mutual understanding. U.S. respondents showed enthusiasm for Chinese social media (41.1%), animation (34.4%), and gaming (27%). Meanwhile, youth proposed strengthening ties through joint research, student exchanges, and social media interaction.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the necessity of peaceful coexistence between the world’s largest developed and developing nations. “What has the U.S. gained from the tariff war?” he asked, urging reflection on recent trade tensions.
The findings highlight youth optimism for cross-cultural collaboration as a cornerstone of stable U.S.-China relations.
