The Secrets of the Shanghai Communique

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Zhou Enlai: Kissinger has improved his technique that no one knows if the president has taken chopstick lessons yet. China is developing genuine capabilities, plus an economy that is competitive to extend with the United States. So we are in the classic pre-World War I situation, where neither side has much margin of political concession,. Any disturbance of the equilibrium can lead to consequences. The top duty to maintain the equilibrium if we know how to define it.

Henry Kissinger was one of the most influential and controversial diplomats of the 20th century. He was National Security Advisor and Secretary of State to two American presidents. Now, with China’s growing influence and the prospect of powerful technology that could change the nature of war, his ideas on great power conflict are more relevant than ever. On the eve of his 100th birthday, The Economist spent over eight hours in conversation with Mr Kissinger. In this podcast special, we focus on three elements of the wide-ranging discussion: the role of China, AI and weak American leadership.

Zanny Minton Beddoes hosts with Edward Carr. The full transcript of the conversation with Mr Kissinger is available online.

For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer. We're always trying to improve our podcasts and we'd like your help. Tell us what you think by filling out our listener survey. To take part visit economist.com/intelligencesurvey.