The China-United States Exchange Foundation conveys its warmest wishes to President Jimmy Carter on the occasion of his 100th birthday on October 1, 2024. This historic moment marks a century of change that includes not only his presidency, but also the profound global leadership he continues to provide through the work of The Carter Center.

CUSEF’s long partnership with The Carter Center is established on the personal friendship between our Founder and Chairman Emeritus Mr. Tung Chee-hwa and President Carter – both of whom have committed their lives in service to the world, addressing its challenges, and advancing the human condition. Their alliance informs understanding and improves outcomes.

In particular, we commend his international campaign to eradicate Guinea Worm disease, which impacted 3.5 million people when he began this movement in 1986. Today, there are 13 human cases remaining. Above all, his role in normalizing the U.S.-China relationship in 1979 with Chinese leader Mr. Deng Xiaoping will forever be a place marker in modern history.

CUSEF President James Chau, who spoke to President Carter in his most recent international interview in 2019, says: “When I think of lasting peace, I think of President Carter. Who else can say they have lived to 100 – and used that entire century to bring about better lives for everyone? That speaks precisely to the promise, legacy, and hope of President Carter and The Carter Center.”

You can watch Mr. Chau’s full comments in the birthday video above.

James Chau interviewed President Jimmy Carter at The Carter Center in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 18, 2019. (Photo Credit: The Carter Center)