Trump Discusses Visa Policy for Chinese Students

During a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, President Donald Trump elaborated on his decision to permit 600,000 Chinese students to study in the United States, despite earlier indications from his administration to revoke their visas.

Trump mentioned on Monday that this change came after discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, expressing that it’s an “honor” for Chinese students to come to the U.S. He stated, “We’re doing very well with China. And I’m doing very well with President Xi. I think it’s somewhat unduly humiliating to say that students can’t come here because they can go out, build schools, and manage on their own. But I appreciate when students choose to study here.”

Back in March, Secretary of State Marco Rubio had announced that the administration would “aggressively” revoke visas for Chinese students, especially those associated with China’s Communist Party. However, by June, an agreement was reached that would allow students to continue their education in the U.S.

Trump attributed his administration’s decision to allow Chinese students to study in America to his strong rapport with President Xi. He emphasized the excellence of the U.S. university system, stating, “We have an incredible university system. No one else is close. That’s exactly why so many from China come here. It’s a significant honor for these students.”

In a meeting at the Oval Office on Monday, Trump also revealed plans to visit China to meet with Xi, mentioning that the U.S. holds “incredible cards” that could be detrimental to China if played. This visit is expected amid ongoing trade negotiations, where Trump has gradually reduced tariffs while China has received extensions.