"Xi Jinping's Diplomatic Journey: From Chinese Propaganda to Unlikely Friendships in America"

Chinese propaganda, which previously portrayed the United States as an adversary, has suddenly shifted its tone to emphasize the "enduring strength" of President Xi Jinping's affection for ordinary Americans. This change in messaging comes ahead of Xi's visit to San Francisco, his first trip to the United States in over six years, where he is expected to meet with President Biden. The shift in propaganda is seen as an attempt to stabilize relations between the two countries and reassure investors and foreign businesses, particularly as China's economy struggles. While the intended audience is primarily overseas, Chinese social media users have taken note of the abrupt turn and have been left confused or amused. Some Chinese academics and writers remain cautious or pessimistic about the prospects of a thaw in U.S.-China relations.