The Merge

E33 – Keeping up Foreign Relations

Apr 7, 2024

Former Australian diplomat John Fowler discusses global events like China's economic shifts, Taiwan elections, Russia in Ukraine, and US involvement in international matters. They delve into AUKUS, Japan's military, and US superpower status, offering unique perspectives. John runs International Intrigue, a daily newsletter by former diplomats, providing insights on world events and their significance.

01:01:00

Creator website

Episode guests

John Fowler

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

China's economic struggles and Xi Jinping's focus on stable international relations for business.

Intensifying regional tensions in the South China Sea due to territorial disputes and military presence.

US election impact on Ukraine aid and European relations, highlighting the importance of global security dynamics.

Deep dives

China's Economic Struggles and Geopolitical Diplomacy

China's struggle to stimulate its economy due to debt issues in the real estate sector and low domestic consumption is a key concern. Xi Jinping aims to improve China's image for stable business relations internationally, amidst tensions in the region. The South China Sea sees territorial disputes and resource contention among multiple neighboring states, escalating regional defense spending.

Introduction

2min

Exploring International Intrigue and Global News Analysis

2min

Understanding China's Economic and Political Landscape

14min

China's Claims and Territorial Disputes in the South China Sea

13min

Exploring Coalitions and the Boao Forum in Foreign Relations

3min

Evolution of US Foreign Policy Strategies

24min

Exploring International Intrigue and Diplomatic Memes

2min

Don’t miss our newsletter!

Former Australian diplomat John Fowler joins Mike Benitez to discuss what’s happening around the world through the lens of international relations.

John is a repeat guest—check out episode 16 to get caught up. In this episode, we discuss China, the South China Sea, the Taiwan elections, Russia in Ukraine, and even cautiously venture a bit into how US domestic politics is muddying the waters with Ukraine aid.

Should we even be involved? Why or why not? We look at both sides from a few perspectives you won’t hear anywhere else. We also make a detour into AUKUS, Japan’s rebuilding of its military, and discuss what the real superpower of the US is.

John Fowler runs International Intrigue, a daily newsletter written by a team of former diplomats (link below!). It’s packed with great, easy-to-consume content and helps you keep a pulse on what’s happening in the world—and why it matters.

For those interested in #military #technology #strategy #diplomacy #china #asia #security #government #nationalsecurity #defense #nationaldefense #russia #ukraine

----

Links

• Sign up for our ⁠amazing newsletter⁠!

• Support us on ⁠Patreon⁠!

• Mike Benitez (LinkedIn)

• John Fowler (X)

• International Intrigue newsletter

• Dickerpicss (IG)

----

• ⁠Instagram⁠

• ⁠Facebook⁠

• ⁠X (Twitter)⁠