Keyword:geopolitics

The Genesis of Chinese Thinking on Sovereignty: A Conversation with Bill Hayton

In this episode, Mr. Bill Hayton joins us to discuss the genesis of China’s thinking about sovereignty and how this history shapes Chinese foreign policy today. He discusses the influence of Western notions of sovereignty on China during the Qing Dynasty and argues that the dynastic tribute system is still reflected to some extent in China’s current international relations. Mr. Hayton frames the volatile South China Sea situation in terms of sovereignty, describing control of the islands as a deeply emotional issue that is emblematic of national pride for China. He also explains how views of sovereignty could affect China’s approach to arms control, resulting in reluctance to accept third-party inspection of compliance with international treaties. Lastly, Mr. Hayton sheds light on China’s vision of an international stage characterized by relationships between individual and sovereign states rather than coalitions and blocs.

China Courts Closer Ties with Nepal: A Conversation with Gaurab Shumsher Thapa

In this episode, Gaurab Shumsher Thapa joins us to discuss the trajectory of China-Nepal relations and China’s geostrategic interests in Nepal. Mr. Thapa explains the history of China-Nepal relations and analyzes China’s motives in increasing engagement with Nepal in recent years. He also discusses Nepal’s foreign policy of non-alignment and how this serves Nepal’s interests as geopolitical tensions heat up throughout the region.

Water Challenges Inside and Outside China’s Borders: A Conversation with Scott Moore

In the episode, Dr. Scott Moore joins us to discuss the challenges that China faces in securing its vast water needs. Dr. Moore details China’s efforts to respond to the major threats facing its water resource supply, including scarcity and pollution. He also addresses the impacts that cross-border water security dynamics have on China’s regional relationships, and the opportunities created by water-related projects like hydropower plants in Belt and Road Initiative partner countries.

Xi-Modi Summit in Chennai, India: A Conversation with Tanvi Madan

In this episode, Dr. Tanvi Madan joins us to discuss Xi Jinping’s October 2019 meeting with Narendra Modi in India, as well as how China-India relations have evolved since their Wuhan Summit in 2018. Dr. Madan analyzes the major strategic and economic factors that are shaping the bilateral relationship, and how US policy toward India affects Sino-Indian ties. She also addresses existing points of contention between the two countries, including disputes over the Kashmir region and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

China’s Growing Presence in the Pacific Islands: A Conversation with Anna Powles

In this episode, Dr. Anna Powles joins us to discuss China’s growing presence in the Pacific region. Dr. Powles analyzes the geopolitical and security concerns of China’s deepening involvement in the region, as well as the consequences of competition between regional powers. She also addresses the complexities of China’s strategic, economic, and diplomatic interests and implications for the future strategic balance of the region.

China and the Global Rare Earth Trade: A Conversation with Julie Klinger

In this episode, Dr. Julie Klinger joins us to discuss China’s dominance in the rare earths industry. She explains what rare earths are, how rare earth supply chains gradually moved to China, and the ways in which China has dealt with the environmental consequences of rare earth production. Dr. Klinger also addresses China’s efforts to diversify the rare earths supply chain and the potential for China to curtail rare earth shipments to the US as part of the ongoing trade war.

Chinese Interests and Policies in the Middle East: A Conversation with Jon Alterman

In this episode, Dr. Jon Alterman joins us to discuss China’s growing ties to the Middle East and North Africa region, including Chinese geopolitical and economic interests as well as investment. Dr. Alterman analyzes how China has used the Belt and Road Initiative and high-level state visits to deepen its relationships with countries in the region. He also touches on the efficacy of China’s attempt to stay out of the region’s political disputes moving forward.