Face-Off: The U.S. vs China THE GREAT WAGER EPISODE 4: Shared Secrets
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Oct 21, 2025 Explore the unprecedented collaboration between the U.S. and China during the Cold War. The podcast reveals how Kissinger shared CIA intelligence with Chinese officials, strengthening their alliance against a common enemy: the Soviet Union. Discover the strategic significance of western China in surveillance efforts and the negotiations for spy stations prior to formal recognition. Hear about Deng Xiaoping's secretive visit to the CIA and the mutual benefits that emerged from this covert partnership, transforming the balance of power.
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Secret Intelligence Shared In Beijing
- Henry Kissinger shared highly classified CIA intelligence with General Ye to highlight Soviet forces arrayed against China.
- This disclosure signaled an unprecedented strategic pivot linking U.S. intelligence to Chinese military planning.
Joint Spy Stations Against A Common Rival
- U.S. and China negotiated joint spy stations in western China to monitor Soviet missile tests near their border.
- The collaboration required China to first get formal diplomatic recognition from the U.S. before full cooperation.
Deng's Night Visit To Langley
- Deng Xiaoping made a secret nighttime visit to CIA headquarters during his 1979 U.S. trip and toured satellite maps and facilities.
- He then met CIA director Stansfield Turner and agreed to build and run joint spy stations with the U.S.