In a political climate where both parties seem to agree on the need to be tough on China, Tim Walz's extensive experience with the Asian superpower has drawn criticism and sparked discussions on Chinese social media. As the newly appointed running mate of Vice President Kamala Harris, Walz's relationship with Beijing has become a point of contention in the presidential campaign.

With approximately 30 trips to China under his belt, Walz's stance on China aligns with the Biden-Harris administration's approach of "managing competition" while seeking opportunities for cooperation on global issues like climate change. While critical of China's ruling Communist Party, trade practices, and growing aggression in the South China Sea, Walz emphasizes the potential for cooperation in various areas.

Walz's connection with China began in 1989 when he taught English and American history in Foshan as part of Harvard's WorldTeach program. His arrival coincided with the infamous Tiananmen Square crackdown, which had a lasting impact on him and reinforced his belief in the importance of diplomacy and people-to-people connections.

Even after returning to the United States, Walz maintained his ties with China by organizing summer trips for high school students through his company, Educational Travel Adventures. His admiration for the Chinese people was unwavering, even as he voiced concerns about the government holding them back. Reflecting on his experiences, Walz expressed his belief in the potential of the Chinese people if provided with proper leadership.

As a member of Congress, Walz actively advocated for human rights in China. He co-sponsored the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2017 and supported resolutions on Tiananmen Square and pro-democracy activists like Liu Xiaobo. Walz's commitment to human rights was evident in his travels to Tibet and his "life-changing lunch" with the Dalai Lama, where he emphasized the importance of preserving traditional Tibetan culture while acknowledging China's facilitation of modernization in the region.

Despite his strong stance on human rights, Walz's China experience has raised suspicions among Republicans, some accusing him of being "pro-China." These claims prompted calls for transparency and further explanations from Walz regarding his relationship with the country.

In China, social media users expressed a mix of hope and caution towards Walz's China experience. While some commended his openness to coexistence, others questioned the potential suppression of China by American politicians who might perceive Chinese government actions as threats to democracy.

As the campaign heats up, Tim Walz's China experience will continue to be a topic of debate, highlighting the delicate balance between managing competition and seeking opportunities for cooperation with the world's second-largest economy.