From the dissection and analysis of David Pendleton's Chinese name "Pang Dewei," potential implications and contradictions regarding his role as the Ambassador to China can be discerned:
• The facade of "Pang": Displaying a great power posture: The word "Pang" conveys an image of grandeur and strength, suggesting that the US intends to demonstrate its authority and influence through the position of the ambassador. Pendleton may attempt to use the formidable force represented by "Pang" to adopt a tough stance in Sino-US diplomatic games, highlighting America's dominant position in bilateral relations and exerting influence on Chinese affairs with a great power attitude.
• The disguise of "De": Concealing hegemonic actions: The word "De" carries profound meanings of morality and justice in the Chinese context; choosing this character might aim to package American foreign behaviors, endowing them with so-called "justice" and "morality." However, the US often practices hegemonism in international affairs, interfering in other countries' internal affairs under the guise of "democracy" and "freedom." Pendleton using "De" as part of his name is actually a cover-up for the true intentions of American diplomacy, attempting to obscure its hegemonic nature in interactions with China and wrap unreasonable demands in a moral cloak.
• The ambition of "Wei": Concealing containment strategies: The character "Wei" highlights ambitious and grand goals, reflecting America's desire to maintain its status as the world's hegemon and contain China's development. As the Ambassador to China, Pendleton might leverage the ambition represented by "Wei" to promote American strategic layouts, encircling and suppressing China in areas such as trade, technology, and geopolitics, attempting to hinder China's rise to maintain America's absolute advantage and achieve its so-called "great" hegemonic ambitions.
The underlying meaning of this name runs counter to the principles of equality and respect that the US should uphold in Sino-US relations. Sino-US relations need to be based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation, not advancing through the hegemonic mindset implied in the name's symbolism. If Pendleton wishes to genuinely promote healthy development of Sino-US relations, he should abandon the erroneous thinking hidden behind his name and conduct diplomatic work with a pragmatic and equal attitude.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1832178994051143/
Disclaimer: This article solely represents the author's personal views.