Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, said in an interview with CMG on Sept. 26 that the agreement by the Chinese and U.S. heads of state to build a "constructive strategic stability relationship based on respect, fairness and reciprocity" is of great significance, and that the two countries should seek common ground while reserving differences.
"This is very important. The United States and China should cooperate sincerely. Both countries bear responsibility toward all humanity and should move forward on the basis of mutual respect and understanding. I am encouraged that President Xi Jinping attaches great importance to China-U.S. relations," Greene said.
"Our countries differ in national conditions and systems. We recognize our differences, but if we join hands, there is no limit to what we can achieve."
At a welcome banquet hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump, President Xi reviewed the history of China and the United States fighting fascist aggression side by side during World War II, of which the Flying Tigers are a part. Greene said he was delighted and proud that President Xi mentioned this shared history.
"As a historian, I think this is one of the most important moments in the history of China-U.S. relations. These young Americans did everything they could to fight the Japanese, and the Chinese people made enormous sacrifices. The bond that grew between these American pilots and the Chinese people is a relationship you cannot find anywhere else," he said.
"It was not just helping others; it was humanity on display. These collaborations show that no matter the circumstances, if we work together we can win, overcome difficulties and create opportunities."
During the visit, President Xi said the hope of China-U.S. relations lies in the people and the future lies in the youth, announcing that China will invite 100,000 American teenagers to study and exchange in China over the next five years.
Greene said the foundation has worked to encourage younger generations to carry forward the heritage of China-U.S. cooperation and meet new challenges together, launching the Flying Tigers Friendship Schools and Youth Leaders Program.
"We started with a school in Las Vegas, Nevada, and another in Zhijiang, Hunan Province, and we bring students to China. Our schools now span more than ten U.S. states. When our students come to China they learn about the country, talk with Chinese students, make friends and learn how to cooperate," he said.
