Nicholas Burns, the former U.S. Ambassador to China under President Biden, shares his unique insights from his time in Beijing. He discusses his experiences meeting Xi Jinping and American CEOs, highlighting the intricacies of U.S.-China relations. The conversation dives into the challenges businesses face amid growing tensions and COVID-19. Burns also addresses China's tech advancements and the complexities of tariffs and cybersecurity. Finally, he suggests impactful books that illuminate China's cultural and historical landscape.
51:50
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Xi Jinping's Power and Vision
Xi Jinping is China's strongest leader since Mao, holding near-total control of China's power institutions.
His leadership focuses on restoring China's global greatness and expanding its diplomatic and infrastructure outreach.
insights INSIGHT
Business Hesitation Amid Crackdowns
American CEOs stayed in China because of its huge market but hesitated expanding investments amid private sector crackdowns.
Harsh controls and political risks created significant doubt among U.S. business leaders.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Demand Reciprocity in Diplomacy
Demand reciprocity in diplomatic relations and resist accepting false denials of censorship or restrictions.
Push back firmly against authoritarian actions to preserve normal communication and goodwill.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Jonathan Spence's "To Change China" offers a profound exploration of Western attempts to influence and transform China throughout history. The book meticulously traces these efforts, from religious proselytization to political interventions, highlighting the resilience and enduring nature of Chinese culture. Spence masterfully demonstrates how these external pressures have shaped China's trajectory while underscoring the limitations of imposing foreign ideologies. The narrative underscores the importance of understanding China on its own terms, recognizing the depth and complexity of its historical and cultural context. Ultimately, the book serves as a crucial reminder of the need for nuanced engagement with China's unique identity.
The Private Life of Chairman Mao
Li Zhisui
The Private Life of Chairman Mao offers a detailed and revealing account of Mao Zedong's life from 1954 until his death in 1976. Written by Li Zhisui, Mao's personal physician, the book provides insights into Mao's personal habits, political strategies, and the inner workings of his imperial court. It covers significant events like the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, offering a humanizing yet critical portrayal of one of history's most influential leaders.
Chip War
The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology
Chris Miller
In 'Chip War', Chris Miller details how the semiconductor industry has become essential for modern life, influencing military, economic, and geopolitical power. The book explores the historical development of microchips, from their origins in Silicon Valley to their current role in global politics, particularly in the competition between the United States and China. Miller explains how the U.S. dominance in chip design and manufacturing contributed to its victory in the Cold War and how China's efforts to catch up are shaping the current geopolitical landscape.
In this bonus episode of Face-Off Jane speaks with former ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns. They discuss Ambassador Burns’ encounters with the Chinese leader Xi Jinping, his meetings with American CEOs, and his travels to remote places in China.
Face-Off: The U.S. vs China 
