'Harris's no 2 taught in China': Chinese internet reacts to Walz

Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota and the Democratic Party's nominee for vice president, has recently made headlines not just in the United States but also across the globe, particularly in China. This attention comes after he signed a significant law that guarantees free school meals for every student in Minnesota's public and charter schools. This initiative is a major step towards ensuring that all children have access to nutritious food, which is essential for their growth and learning. However, what has caught the interest of many Chinese social media users is Walz's past experience teaching in China back in 1989. This year is particularly notable in Chinese history due to the tragic events of the Tiananmen Square massacre, where many people lost their lives while advocating for political reforms. The discussions surrounding Walz's time in China have gained immense traction on Weibo, with millions of views and comments reflecting on his experiences. During his year in Guangdong, Walz taught English and American history at a high school, and he has often described this period as one of the best experiences of his life. He was fresh out of college and eager to share his knowledge with students in China. His wife, Gwen Whipple, who was also a teacher, accompanied him, and they even celebrated their honeymoon in the country. The fact that Walz was in China during such a tumultuous time has not gone unnoticed by social media users. Many have commented on how different China was back then compared to today. In 1989, China was still developing and had not yet become the global manufacturing powerhouse it is known as today. Some users have expressed hope that if Walz is elected, he could help improve the strained relationship between the United States and China. The two countries have faced numerous challenges in recent years, particularly regarding trade and technology. One user on Weibo pointed out that Walz's unique background gives him a valuable perspective on China, suggesting that he could foster cultural exchanges between the two nations at a time when relations are particularly tense. Walz's teaching experience at Foshan No 1 High School was part of a volunteer program through Harvard University. Upon returning to the U. S. , he praised the Chinese people, stating that they could achieve remarkable things with the right leadership. He emphasized their kindness and capability, which reflects his positive view of the culture. Interestingly, Walz and his wife chose to marry on June 4, 1994, the fifth anniversary of the Tiananmen uprising, a date that holds significant historical weight. His wife mentioned that he wanted to have a memorable date that would always remind them of their shared history. Together, they later established a business that organized educational trips to China for American students, further promoting cultural understanding. While there has not been much official reaction from the Republican Party regarding Walz's time in China, some allies of former President Trump have suggested that his nomination would be welcomed in China. They believe that the Chinese government might view Walz's candidacy favorably, indicating the potential for improved diplomatic relations. This situation highlights the complex interplay between personal experiences and international politics, as well as the importance of understanding different cultures in today's globalized world.