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Harvard Professor William Kirby emphasizes the critical importance of academic re-engagement between the U.S. and China, warning that isolationist policies are a 'death sentence' for universities. He highlights the need for renewed trust and cooperation across various sectors, including technology and education, to foster a more predictable and professional relationship between the two nations.

Academic Re-engagement is 'Critical for All'

Professor William Kirby of Harvard University stressed that academic re-engagement with China is critical for Americans. He explained that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a cutoff in exchanges between the two countries, and recent political pressures from the Donald Trump administration further limited interaction. Professor Kirby warned that American universities must attract the best talent globally to maintain their standards in higher education, stating that isolationism is like a 'death sentence' for universities. He added that China possesses a significant portion of the world's best human capital.

Tech Cooperation and Security Concerns: The Need for Trust-Building

The U.S. administration's policies towards China have led to restrictions on technological cooperation and the revocation of student visas. Some have expressed concern that Chinese students might use acquired advanced technology to boost China's competitiveness. However, Professor Kirby argued that these sanctions have paradoxically encouraged innovation within China. Citing the Huawei case, he noted that U.S. sanctions did not impede Huawei's technological advancement, but rather spurred China to accelerate its indigenous technology development. He emphasized that rebuilding trust is essential for the China-U.S. relationship to become more professional and predictable.

Opportunities for Future Cooperation

China is currently pursuing 109 major projects across six key areas under its 15th Five-Year Plan, focusing on new quality productive forces, infrastructure modernization, public well-being, green and low-carbon transition, and food and energy security. Professor Kirby believes these initiatives offer immense cooperation opportunities for the United States. He highlighted areas like climate change, energy, and sustainability as crucial for bilateral collaboration, noting China's potential contributions to modernizing the U.S. power grid. He pointed out China's rapid advancements in new technologies such as electric vehicles and suggested that the U.S. should seize these opportunities for cooperation. Ultimately, he stressed that fostering deeper understanding and collaboration through academic exchanges is vital for a positive future between the two countries.

*Source: YouTube: CGTN (2026-03-26)*

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