US Presidents and Chinese Chopsticks
Bill Clinton has also learned how to use chopsticks so as to be able to show off at the state banquet in Beijing. Ever since Richard Nixon first visited China in 1972 every successive US president has visited China. Learning to use chopsticks has been an important lesson for all of them, because it is not only a part of gastronomic culture, but also a political art, a "small trick" to show off and win the host's pleasure.
Nixon had set the example to American presidents to pay attention to the art of using chopsticks which was also a conversation topic at the state banquet during his visit. This, just like the shots of Nixon downing Maotai, was televised throughout the world. From then on, all American presidents visiting China have tried their best to show off their skill in using chopsticks.
At the 1972 banquet, Premier Zhou Enlai noticed the dexterity with which President Nixon for their first class skill. Mrs Nixon immediately seized up on the topic with great relish and even let out the "secret" that they had been practicing using chopsticks in the White House for their visit to China. For half a year the Nixons had been using chopsticks instead of knives and forks for their meals.
Nothing gave the Nixons delight than to be praised by their host for their skill in using chopsticks. The success and prestige of a statesman is fully proved when he is praised by his host for immersing himself into the culture of the country he is visiting.
The two countries had not established diploma relations when Nixon first visited China, so his visit was not an official state visit, but nevertheless he was meticulous with every single minor detail. Later US presidents visiting China followed his example and paid special attention to minor details.