Opinion | 'Anything but friends'

By Darius

What image does Trump hold in the hearts of the Chinese people? If I had to describe it, he resembles the Pokémon Ditto; you never know what form he will take next or what bizarre skills he will unleash against you.

Ten years ago, he successfully broke the "blue wall," transforming from a wealthy businessman to the head of the American political scene. At that time, the Chinese were accustomed to Obama's eloquence and considered this loud-mouthed man with golden hair a unique character, even giving him the down-to-earth Chinese name "Chuan Jianguo (Trump the nation builder)." Years later, that playful aura has faded, and Trump's hardline protectionist stance, America-first governance, and various actions during his term have made it clear: Trump is not the whimsical Cheshire Cat; he is a fierce beast that can show its fangs at any moment.

It is important to note that while protectionism is Trump's signature, the strategy toward China was not solely crafted by him. As China's economy rapidly developed and showed signs of surpassing the U.S., America's "self-protection mechanism" was triggered. As the Chinese saying goes, "A large ship is hard to turn." The renowned Singaporean diplomat and scholar Kishore Mahbubani once stated that no president could easily change the U.S. policy towards China, as the forces driving anti-China sentiment are structural rather than personal.

Yes, what difference will Harris make?

This politician, who appeals to voters through identity politics and presents a façade of compassion, will she truly be the swan of people's dreams? In an era where political correctness has become foundational to global trends, someone who can stir up the winds with such power is likely to be very formidable. Her fierce rivalry with Trump also illustrates that the US is now deeply caught in a vortex of identity politics, racial conflict, and external threat narratives. From any of the perspectives they care about, unfortunately, China is viewed as an adversary rather than an ally by any dissenting American politician.

There is virtually no racial issue in China, so there is no common language with America; after experiencing a proletarian revolution, the concept of equality is highly valued in China. As descendants of an ancient river civilization, the Chinese emphasize introspection and assimilation rather than aggression and expansion. When there is no similar ideology and interests conflict, the likelihood of friendly attitudes from American politicians towards China is nearly nonexistent.

However, has China truly harmed American interests?

Among the souvenirs of Trump's current campaign, there is a small red cap clearly labeled "Made in China." Decades of cooperation between the two countries have provided countless individuals with opportunities for wealth and have promoted cultural communication and understanding. For ordinary people, this has been nothing but beneficial, but for politicians eager for more power who wish to create a fictitious enemy, it offers no advantages.

Unfortunately, the peace-loving people of China will never proactively become anyone's enemy, but politicians, ironically, are another story.

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