Remembering Henry Kissinger: A Diplomatic Giant Leaves Behind a Lasting Legacy on Sino-US Relations
As news broke out across the globe on November 29th, reverberations echoed like a thousand drums when it was announced that Henry Kissinger, former United States Secretary of State, had passed away at his home in Connecticut at the age of 100. The announcement was met with an array of emotions around the world, but none as profound and complex as those felt by Chinese social media users who reminisced about a man they considered a true friend to their nation.
30 November 2023
Henry Kissinger's name is forever etched in history as one of the most influential figures in U.S.-China relations, primarily owing to his role in normalizing diplomatic relations between China and the United States during President Nixon's groundbreaking visit to Beijing on February 21st, 1972. This historic event was seen as a major step towards opening up China's economy to the world and marked a pivotal moment in international politics.
Born in Fürth, Germany, Kissinger fled Nazi persecution with his family to the United States and became a naturalized citizen in 1943. He served as National Security Adviser and later as Secretary of State under President Nixon from 1973 to 1977, where he played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War era, including his famous statement: "One aircraft carrier is equivalent to 100,000 tons of international diplomatic force."
While many Chinese netizens expressed their condolences on social media platforms like Weibo, some also shared their respect and admiration for Kissinger's diplomatic prowess. "Kirchner once said that after his first visit to China, he has visited this land for over 100 times since then and made new gains each time," read one post. Another user reminisced about the former U.S. politician as a "longtime friend of the Chinese people" who left an indelible mark on China's development and international presence: "A generation of figures goes down in history, may you rest in peace, our old friends."
However, not all reactions were positive. Some users expressed skepticism about Kissinger's true intentions towards China, claiming he was a "politician" who used strategic diplomacy to serve U.S. interests. Still, they admitted that his influence on Sino-U.S. relations was undeniable: "In America, there are very few people who truly hope for Sino-U.S. friendship; other American officials can be called politicos or politicians, and Kissinger can be considered a politician."
On November 30th, the Kissinger Consulting Company released an official statement announcing Kissinger's passing. The company further highlighted his extensive relationship with China's national leaders, stating that he was "the only American politician who has met all previous Chinese leaders." His influence and legacy left a lasting impact on both nations, as expressed by netizens paying homage to the diplomatic giant: "An old friend of the Chinese people, oh, may you travel well along your way."
As news of Kissinger's passing reverberated across Weibo and other social media platforms, many Chinese netizens took time to reflect on his profound influence on U.S.-China relations. His role in normalizing diplomatic ties between the two nations and his enduring legacy as a champion for peaceful cooperation will undoubtedly be remembered by future generations.
As one Weibo user eloquently put it: "You are blowing up the big brother!" while another expressed gratitude towards Kissinger's efforts in strengthening bilateral relations, stating: "Our good friend in China may you rest in peace." With Kissinger's passing, the world lost a towering figure in diplomacy and international politics who will be remembered as a visionary leader and an icon of cross-cultural communication.
