Philip Tinari, Director of UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, reflects on art as a rare space for exchange at a time of growing U.S.-China mistrust. In conversation with CUSEF President James Chau, he shares how contemporary art has evolved in China, why American artists like Andy Warhol resonate with Chinese audiences, and how his own cross-cultural life has become a “gift” shaped by years of immersion and shared creativity.

Amid rising geopolitical tensions, U.S.-China student exchanges, once a cornerstone of mutual benefit, are now under threat from visa restrictions and declining enrollment, risking long-term damage to educational, scientific, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

In May, the world lost one of its most thoughtful and influential voices in international affairs: Professor Joseph S. Nye Jr. At 88, he left behind a legacy as a teacher, theorist, and bridge-builder between nations. I am deeply saddened by his passing. I was privileged to have known him personally, and as I reflect on our interactions over the years, I am reminded of his immense generosity of spirit, intellectual clarity, and unwavering commitment to peace through understanding.

The Trump administration's threat to revoke foreign student visas exemplifies a broader assault on intellectual openness and U.S. higher education's global appeal, risking long-term damage to its reputation as a welcoming, world-class academic destination.

Digital platforms like RedNote are fostering new cross-Pacific interactions between U.S. and Chinese users, content creators, and celebrities, offering fresh opportunities for cultural exchange amid declining in-person engagement. Despite political tensions and regulatory hurdles, digital spaces are emerging as vital bridges between the two nations.

Sports serve as a powerful platform for cultural exchange, bridging divides through shared discipline and teamwork. While structured presentations and events certainly play a role in showcasing progress and fostering connections, the most meaningful interactions often occur in the moments of discomfort and vulnerability, such as navigating language barriers and cultural differences while collectively working towards a common goal.

The debate over DeepSeek puts on clear display how political nationalism risks stifling technological progress. While some push for strict AI decoupling, experts warn that restricting collaboration could undermine innovation. We must find a way to balance national security with the open exchange of ideas that drives scientific advancement.

The deep interactions between Chinese and American researchers and their intertwined scientific networks highlight the importance of long-term cooperation. Any major disruptions could have a profound impact on the global research ecosystem.

Despite heightened tensions between China and the U.S., sub-national diplomacy remains a critical channel for fostering collaboration. However, rising security concerns in the U.S. and differing priorities in China pose challenges, underscoring the need for transparency, trust, and a focus on mutual interests to sustain these efforts.

To avoid misunderstandings that could escalate into conflict, China and the United States must come to agreement about what strategic stability means. The concept is interwoven with the basic assumptions of each side as they negotiate, but their current mismatch is serious and undermines success.