High-level diplomatic exchanges bring images of boardrooms and podiums to mind, but why not concert halls and galleries? Cultural interactions can do as much, if not more, in the realm of bringing common understanding to the mainstream.

Academic pursuits have been a primary arena of culture battles and political grandstanding to the detriment of society and students alike. The U.S. and China’s history of exchanging learners has led to opportunities for both sides to grow - but today’s students may not even get the chance.

One must be wary of negative language and false information. These only harm the mutual feelings of amity between the two peoples that have characterized much of the past. Rumors and false accusations only undermine relations and impede opportunities to cooperate.

Resuming people-to-people exchanges is the most important first step in healing relations between China and the United States. Both sides must resist domestic political pressure and avoid provocation. Blacklists need to be scrapped.

In this interview with China-US Focus, Dr. Keisha Brown, made specific suggestions about how to bring diverse voices to the China space. She is an advocate for Fulbright programs returning to China and encouraging students to take the less-traveled path, such as going into rural area to diversify the American perspective. Her powerful personal narrative is one of life enrichment

A recently published Pew Research Center study showcases the decline of China’s popular rating over the past few years. But the forest is always bigger than a single tree, and it’s important to interpret even reputable surveys through the lenses of their particular contexts, their participants, and the nature of the questions posed.

Hong Kong has the opportunity to play a unique role in the Sino-American relationship, which would also help it maintain relevance on the world stage. Additionally, the SAR must diversify beyond the Sino-U.S. relationship.

Daniel Bell, a former dean at a Chinese university, offers rare insight into contemporary Chinese life from a Western perspective. His lived experiences overseas can serve as a new lens through which to observe China, especially as media discourse sours on America’s rival.

As tensions between China and the U.S. seemingly increase, it’s difficult for either side to overcome public perceptions shaped by the media and arrive at the point of intentional communication. But reflecting on the history of diplomatic relations between China and the U.S. reminds us that “it’s not about friendship, it’s about mutual self-interest.”

Just as a pianist practises a new piece of music slowly, with attention to every phrase, keeping the first signs of goodwill between Washington and Beijing on track calls for a disciplined use of words. More educational exchanges and people-to-people interactions will also help improve understanding and dispel fear and suspicion.