Commission Members:
Edwin J. Feulner, Jr., chairman
Tom C. Korologos, vice chainnan
Priscilla L. Buckley
Hershey Gold
Richard M. Scaife
Louis B. Susman
Commission Staff: Bruce Gregory, Staff Director; Merianne Glickman, Deputy Staff Director
Summary
This Commission report evaluated U.S. public diplomacy efforts in China following the tragedy of Tiananmen Square. The Commissioners highlight the unprecedented current opportunity for cooperation and mutual understanding between the U.S. and China and suggest ways to reach out and improve communication practices. The report found Voice of America to be the most powerful, direct, and effective means of providing accurate news and information about American policies and values to the Chinese people.
Quotations
The United States and the People's Republic of China have benefited significantly from international public affairs and educational exchange programs. Public diplomacy programs are in the long-term best interests of both countries.
It is in the national interest for USIA to be able to respond quickly to public diplomacy opportunities. The Commission urges Congress and the Executive Branch to provide USIA with adequate funds and budget flexibility.
The Commission believes relations between the United States and China have benefited greatly from increased international information and educational exchange programs.
USIA's Office of Research estimated VOA's China audience to be 17 million in 1989.
