MOFA: Banning International Students from Harvard Damages U.S. Educational and Economic Interests
China and the U.S. emphasize mutual benefits in educational cooperation, opposing politicization efforts, says Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian.
Educational cooperation between China and the United States has long served as a foundation for fostering mutual understanding and driving innovation. At a Thursday press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian underscored the importance of these ties, stating that China has always opposed the politicization of educational cooperation. Lin emphasized that the two countries’ longstanding exchange of students and scholars yields benefits not only for participants but also for the broader societies of both nations.
The remarks came in response to a question regarding the Trump administration’s recent decision on June 4 to suspend the entry of foreign nationals—specifically those seeking to study or participate in exchange programs at Harvard University—for an initial period of six months. The move is expected to affect hundreds of international applicants, sparking concern among education stakeholders globally. “Such measures will only damage the U.S.’s international credibility,” Lin stated, expressing regret over what he described as a step backward in bilateral educational relations.
Lin further noted that China considers protecting the legitimate rights and interests of its students and scholars abroad as a top priority. The spokesperson called on the U.S. to uphold its responsibility to create an open and non-discriminatory environment for international academic exchange, warning that restrictions not only hurt students, but also undermine the United States’ role as a leader in global higher education.
For decades, Chinese students have made up the largest group of international students at many American universities, including Harvard. University administrators and education advocates have voiced worries that restrictions could disrupt research collaborations and academic progress. As both sides grapple with new policy uncertainties, the future of educational ties between China and the United States remains in question, with implications likely to ripple across campuses around the world.
