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The Galwan Valley Clash and China’s Approach to Sovereignty Disputes: A Conversation with M. Taylor Fravel

In this episode, Dr. M. Taylor Fravel joins us to discuss the June 2020 deadly clash along the China-India border and China’s broader approach to sovereignty disputes. Dr. Fravel assesses China’s role in the incident, and analyzes what China’s increased willingness to aggressively advance its interests on sovereignty-related issues signifies about the changing nature of Chinese foreign policy. He also explains the potential role of the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing’s decision-making in territorial and maritime disputes, and examines China’s potential reaction if the Galwan Valley incident pushes India closer to the US.

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.

Rough Waters in the South China Sea: A Conversation with Greg Poling

In this episode, Greg Poling joins us to discuss China’s behavior, motivations, and strategy in the South China Sea, including recent incidents and escalating tensions with the Philippines and Vietnam. Mr. Poling analyzes whether China’s narrative in the South China Sea is a compelling one, and warns of the potential for unintended escalations of violence between claimant states. He also touches on China’s increasing militarization of the South China Sea, and critiques the Trump administration’s strategy to advance US interests in the region.

The PLA Navy’s Growing Prowess: A Conversation with Andrew Erickson

In this episode, Andrew Erickson joins us to discuss China’s recent efforts to modernize its navy and expand its naval fleet. He assesses China’s current naval capabilities relative to other countries and examines the future prospects of China’s naval modernization. He also touches on China’s commercial and military shipbuilding activities in addition to the evolution of China’s aircraft carrier program and its future trajectory.