An American's opinion on President Xi's visit to the US

By Kelli Dougal

Before moving to China I had a skewed idea of what the country, its people, and its leaders were really like.

Maybe it’s because most of our movies about China take place in ancient times. Or maybe it’s because most Americans don’t actually know someone who has traveled to China. Whatever the reason, most US citizens lack a correct understanding of China and thus tend to be suspicious of its leaders and their motives. This suspicion is reflected in the current media coverage of President Xi’s visit to the US.

Many of the articles and news sources I have read question his motives rather than celebrating the fact that the two countries are trying to work through their differences. I, for one, am pleased that he is taking the time to meet with President Obama while discussing some important issues of concern.

Two of the issues being addressed during Xi’s visit are cybersecurity and human rights. Recent developments in China have brought both issues to the forefront of American attention and thus Americans want to know what kind of changes President Xi can enact. Last year, the US had some major concerns in the realm of cybersecurity, and so it is important to the American people to have China’s full support in stopping those who engage in cyber attacks. The American people also want to know what the Chinese government is doing to improve the standard of living for its people. I believe this is issue needs to receive attention from the Chinese government.

As two of the major global powers in the world, it is important that China and the US focus on working together so that both countries can achieve the highest quality of life for their people. I have been impressed with President Xi’s initiatives to end government corruption. I’ve also been impressed with his efforts to cooperate with other nations. I hope the American people recognize these strides instead of relying on their previous judgments of China and its leaders.