China is now viewed more positively than the United States across much of the world, according to the latest Pew Research Center survey, marking the first time in nearly two decades of global polling that China's image has surpassed that of the U.S.

The survey, conducted between February and May among more than 42,000 respondents in 36 countries and territories, found that people in 25 locations held a more favourable view of China than the United States, including long-standing U.S. allies such as Canada, Australia, France and Germany.

Pew found China's median favourability rating rose to 46%, continuing a steady recovery from pandemic-era lows, while the U.S. rating fell to 36%. Respondents in 22 countries also expressed greater confidence in Chinese President Xi Jinping than in U.S. President Donald Trump on global affairs.

Laura Silver, Associate Director of Global Attitudes Research at Pew, said the findings reflect a broader shift in global perceptions as views of China have improved while opinions of the United States have deteriorated. She noted that this is the first time in nearly 20 years of Pew's tracking that China has been viewed more positively than the U.S, noting a direct link to the recent outbreaks of war and the perception that the United States has failed to contribute to world peace and stability.