Trump Changes Stance on Chinese Students in the U.S.

During a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, President Donald Trump clarified his recent decision to permit 600,000 Chinese students to study in the United States, a departure from earlier plans to revoke their visas.

On Monday, Trump announced that despite previous considerations to deny visas to these students, his administration would welcome them. He mentioned to a correspondent that his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping is strong, suggesting it would be “humiliating” to restrict their access to U.S. educational institutions. “It’s an honor for them to be able to come here,” he added.

Initially, Secretary of State Marco Rubio had indicated that in March, the administration would “aggressively” revoke the visas of Chinese students, especially those affiliated with China’s Communist Party. However, by June, this stance shifted following an agreement between the U.S. and China that allowed students to continue their studies in America.

Trump attributed the welcoming of Chinese students to the quality of the U.S. university system, stating, “No one is close to it,” which is why many Chinese students come to study in America. He remarked on the significance of this exchange, noting, “it’s an honor for them to be here.”

In a related note, Trump expressed intentions to visit China to meet with Xi and emphasized that the U.S. has “incredible cards” at its disposal, potentially affecting relations with China. His upcoming visit coincides with ongoing trade negotiations, during which he has adjusted tariffs and allowed extensions from China.