Neil Bush Reflects on China’s Evolution and U.S.-China Relations: A Hopeful Outlook Despite Political Tensions World

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Neil Bush Reflects on China’s Evolution and U.S.-China Relations: A Hopeful Outlook Despite Political Tensions
World

27 Sep 2024 • 8:30 AM MYT

Kpost
Operations consultant who pens the truth in fairness with understanding

Photo Credit: YouTube/LiJingJing


In an exclusive interview with Chinese Journalist Li Jing Jing, Neil Bush, son of former US President George H.W. Bush and brother of ex-President George W. Bush, shared his reflections on U.S.-China relations and his unique insights as the Founder and Chairman of the George H. W. Bush Foundation for U.S.-China Relations. Having visited China over 150 times since 1975, Bush provided a rare, nuanced perspective on China’s transformation over the past five decades.


Bush’s extensive experience with China began during the Cultural Revolution when he, as a 20-year-old, first encountered a nation drastically different from the one we see today. As he reminisced about China’s rise from a "poor bicycling country" to the world’s largest electric vehicle market, he emphasized how the Chinese system had worked for its people, lifting millions out of poverty and driving remarkable prosperity. He acknowledged that most Americans probably can’t even tolerate his viewpoints, but the Chinese system has worked for China. Bush argued that China’s governance had been highly beneficial to hundreds of millions of people whose prospects for prosperity were once bleak.


However, the conversation between Bush and Li took a more critical turn when they discussed current U.S.-China relations, which have hit a low point in recent years. Bush acknowledged the harsh rhetoric toward China, particularly in the U.S. political arena, where China is often portrayed as a threat. Both Democrats and Republicans have used this narrative, particularly in election cycles, painting China as responsible for job losses and unfair trade practices.


Yet, despite this strained relationship, Bush remains cautiously optimistic. “I don’t think things can get worse,” he said, recognizing the cyclical nature of political tensions. He expressed hope that after the U.S. elections, the aggressive anti-China rhetoric might subside, allowing for more rational discussions about the benefits of U.S.-China trade and collaboration. Bush is a firm believer that both economies can thrive through mutual engagement, noting that tariffs and trade restrictions have harmed both nations.


When discussing China’s military growth, Bush pushed back against the idea that China seeks to challenge the U.S. militarily. He believes that China’s military expansion, like that of any rising power, is primarily defensive and aimed at safeguarding its sovereignty rather than posing a threat to the U.S. He cited his father’s view, asserting that treating China as an enemy risks turning them into one, a move that would be catastrophic for both nations and the world.


Looking toward the future, Bush remains optimistic about China’s economic potential. Despite the setbacks from COVID-19 and ongoing geopolitical tensions, he believes that China’s vast population and innovative entrepreneurial spirit will help its economy rebound. However, he warned of potential challenges stemming from China’s aging population, which could impact its long-term productivity.


Throughout the interview, Bush emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration between the two superpowers. As Chairman of the Bush Foundation, he has facilitated various dialogues between American and Chinese politicians, military leaders, and businesspeople. He hopes that such initiatives will foster better understanding and reduce tensions.


Moving forward, Bush’s message is clear: while U.S.-China relations are currently at a low point, there is hope for improvement through dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation. As someone who has witnessed China’s evolution firsthand, Bush sees the immense potential for the two nations to work together for the greater good of both their people and the world.


By: Kpost