On Wednesday, July 29, 2026, a group of students from a George Washington University summer program visited the ICAS office for a learning and exchange session to gain a deeper understanding of key issues in international affairs and U.S.-China relations. ICAS scholars introduced the students to a range of topics, including the BRI Initiative, Chinese macroeconomics, ASEAN-China relations, the state of American students studying in China, and recent polling data from Pew Research Center on American attitudes towards China. The session was led by Senior Fellow Sourabh Gupta, Research Associate Zhangchen Wang, and Program & Communications Coordinator Rian Knighton.
The discussion was highly interactive, with students raising thoughtful questions on polling on armed conflict in Taiwan, China’s relations with Russia, India-Pakistan relations, and the general state of China-Southeast Asian relations particularly with Vietnam and Indonesia. Students also particpated in conversations related to Chinese social media usage and polling data, with most agreeing that they view China as a peer and competitor and all affirming they have more faith in Chinese President Xi Jinping to handle matters of international affairs than U.S. President Donald Trump.
This student visit is part of the Institute’s long-standing vision to foster the next generation of scholars and practitioners of U.S.-China relations through open dialogue, balanced analysis, and meaningful educational exchanges. ICAS remains committed to promoting greater understanding of U.S.-China Relations and serving as a platform for dialogue between the United States, China, and the broader global community.
