Shen Xin, a prominent Chinese public diplomacy official, reflects on the changing role of culture in U.S.-China relations in a conversation with CUSEF President James Chau. Shen argues that while culture may not directly resolve geopolitical issues, it creates space for meaningful dialogue, particularly among young people.

James Chau — CUSEF President — and Shen Xin — Vice President of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries — discuss how visual arts, music, and theater serve as a universal language that fosters global understanding. They stress that people to people exchange drive collaboration, innovation, and cultural enrichment.

Raz Gal-Or (高佑思), the creator behind YChina, reflects on his journey from teen expat to cultural connector at the the 2025 Harvard China Forum, Looking ahead, he believes the future of U.S.-China relations rests with the next generation of creators and innovators. He also encourages young Chinese and Americans alike to engage with each other’s countries — not just as visitors, but as active participants in culture, industry, and dialogue. “The more we can have this communication, the better the future will be,” he says.