BANGKOK (AP) – The Chinese government expressed concerns on Friday regarding the Trump administration's decision to ban international students from Harvard University, emphasizing that this move could damage America's international reputation. Amidst this uncertainty, a university in Hong Kong announced its willingness to welcome these students.
Chinese students represent a significant portion of the international student body at Harvard. In 2024, Harvard enrolled 6,703 international students, with 1,203 hailing from China. The administration's announcement, made public on Thursday, sparked widespread discussions on Chinese social media platforms. State broadcaster CCTV questioned whether the U.S. would continue to be a top destination for foreign students, particularly highlighting Harvard's ongoing lawsuit against the U.S. government.
The CCTV commentary noted the lengthy litigation process could lead to thousands of international students facing difficulties during the waiting period. It suggested that international students should start considering alternative options due to the increasing uncertainties surrounding U.S. policies. In a daily briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that educational cooperation between the U.S. and China is mutually advantageous and voiced opposition to the politicization of such exchanges.
Mao warned that actions taken by the U.S. would ultimately tarnish its image and international credibility. While she conveyed China's commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of its students and scholars abroad, no specific measures were outlined to address the current situation.
In response to the unfolding events, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) issued an open invitation to both current international students at Harvard and admitted students. The university promised to provide unconditional offers, simplified admission processes, and academic support to ensure a smooth transition for those affected.
Meanwhile, in China, some individuals humorously suggested that HKUST should establish a campus in Harbin, as the city's name shares a character with Harvard's name in Chinese. The broader issue of Chinese students studying abroad has historically been a source of tension in Sino-U.S. relations. During Trump's first term, China's Ministry of Education raised alarms about increasing rejection rates and shorter visa durations for students heading to the U.S.
Last year, the Chinese foreign ministry filed complaints regarding reports of Chinese students being interrogated and expelled upon their arrival at U.S. airports. The Chinese media has consistently emphasized the issue of gun violence in the United States, portraying it as an unsafe environment for students. This narrative has led some Chinese students to choose studying in the United Kingdom or other countries instead of the U.S.
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Huizhong Wu, The Associated Press
