Letters | Bring back Fulbright exchange programme with Hong Kong and China that Trump seeks to end

In 15 words, Trump has decimated one of the world’s most enduring international exchanges dedicated to the spirit of mutual understanding. I cannot express the extent of my disappointment that the US government has chosen this programme for elimination.

The Fulbright in Hong Kong has existed for over 15 years, allowing me to visit the city that my parents grew up in for the first time. For an entire year, I witnessed both lows and highs: the 2019 protests and the Covid-19 pandemic, yes, but also the chance to practise my Cantonese late at night, to educate college students, and to meet Chinese people my age from across the country.

It was one of the most formidable experiences of my life, and I know the 50-plus other scholars hosted this year would agree. The fact that the same opportunity will not be offered to young Americans after us is heartbreaking.

China and the United States do not agree on nearly anything. But decoupling diplomatic relations between the two risks damaging any hope of reconciliation within my lifetime.

I am reminded that exchange works both ways. For every American that this programme brings over to Hong Kong and China, a Chinese students step foot in America, perhaps for the first time, to learn about the American way of life and our values.