Formal relations between the United States and China officially began on January 1st, 1979. Since that moment, things have been complicated at best. In the United States the debate about the recognition of Taiwan’s independence is still going on since then. Even in regards to present day qualms, there is much tension between the United States and China. Evidence of this is that both United States Presidential candidates have declared that they will take a ‘harsher’ stance on China. It is obvious that at least on an international political level, the relation between the United States and China is rocky. But, with that said, not all Chinese – US relations are in a shakey condition.
Grass roots programs, particularily those involving an exchange are helping to foster good connections between the two countries. These kinds of programs help set a solid foundation for more extensive relations in the future. Just because the international relationship between the United States and China is rocky does not mean tha tit has to stay that way. Grass roots programs that involve younger people are particularily effective because they are the most easily influenced. If they are given a good impression of the country, that will benefit the future relationship of the two countries.