Local Leaders Discuss Past, Present, and Future of U.S.-China Relations
HOUSTON, February 6, 2019 — Asia Society Texas Center marked 40 years of U.S.-China relations with a panel discussion featuring local international businessman Neil Bush, U.S.-China expert and former diplomat David Firestein, and former Asia Society chairman and longtime Foster LLP chairman Charles Foster in conversation with the Greater Houston Partnership’s Bob Harvey.
The discussion highlighted U.S.-China relations since Leader Deng Xiaoping first visited Texas in 1979, donning a cowboy hat in what became an iconic photograph signaling China’s opening to the West. Speakers noted it should be celebrated that two countries with such ideological and cultural differences came come together and created the world’s most robust trading partnership.
The panel also addressed the current trade dispute, expressing concern over the political framework around the issue. Speakers noted that the U.S. and China are not enemies, but rather partners that could make a difference for their own people and for the world. Because the world’s two largest economies are so intertwined, neither can succeed on its own in this globalized world.
While issues remain to be addressed — such as concerns about technology and intellectual property theft — the panelists remained optimistic about the continuing relationship between the U.S. and China, agreeing that cultural relations in particular are critical in maintaining that partnership.
Press Coverage
亚洲协会联手GHP 从德克萨斯视角看美中关系的过去,现在和未来(12图)
A Texas perspective on US-China relations: keep it going
About Asia Society Texas Center
With 13 locations throughout the world, Asia Society is the leading educational organization promoting mutual understanding and strengthening partnerships among the peoples, leaders, and institutions of Asia and West. Asia Society Texas Center executes the global mission with a local focus, enriching and engaging the vast diversity of Houston through innovative, relevant programs in arts and culture, business and policy, education, and community outreach.