The response from Xi Jinping’s China to President-elect Trump’s victory was formulaic, emphasizing mutual respect, peaceful co-existence, and win-win cooperation in relation to their relationship with the U.S. China experts and citizens believe that ties with the U.S. will worsen under Trump, especially in areas like trade and technology. Taiwan’s President and Vice President congratulated Trump, highlighting the longstanding partnership between Taiwan and the U.S., with many Taiwanese viewing Trump as potentially better for Taiwan due to his tough stance on China.
Taipei-based lawyer Ross Darrell Feingold engaged with Chinese netizens on the Chinese information platform TouTiao, discussing perceptions of Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in relation to China-US relations. Many Chinese netizens feel that the U.S. is hostile towards China and seeks to restrain China’s growth, regardless of the party in power. This sentiment reflects a broader negative view of America in China, with critiques extending to policies affecting Chinese students, tourists, and businesspeople.
Japan congratulated Trump on his victory, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressing hope for the alliance between the two countries to reach new heights. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol also praised Trump’s leadership, anticipating a brighter future for the ROK-U.S. alliance. However, there was no immediate official comment from North Korea, which fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles towards the eastern sea hours before the U.S. election, suggesting potential tensions in the region.
The Taiwanese public has mixed views on the U.S. election, with some finding Trump’s personality unappealing while others see him as potentially beneficial for Taiwan due to his tough stance on China. The impact of Trump’s presidency on key issues such as trade, technology, and Taiwan will be closely watched in the region. The Chinese public’s perceptions of the U.S. and its policies have become more critical, with growing concerns about perceived restrictions on Chinese individuals and negative views towards cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries.
Overall, the future of U.S.-China relations under President-elect Trump remains uncertain, with concerns about worsening ties and potential economic repercussions for both countries. The interactions between key players in the region, such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and North Korea, will also be closely monitored as they navigate the shifting dynamics in East Asia. The sentiments expressed by Chinese netizens and political leaders provide insights into the evolving perceptions of American policies and their impact on regional stability.
