

Ep. 304: Zongyuan Zoe Liu on Calculated China vs Unpredictable US
Apr 17, 2025
Zongyuan Zoe Liu is a Senior Fellow for China studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, focusing on international political economy and global markets. In this conversation, she delves into the complexities of US-China relations, tracing their evolution from the Obama era to now. Liu discusses Xi Jinping's worldview shaped by generational trauma and explains China's strategic response to tensions. She also examines the push for de-dollarization among BRICS nations and reflects on the broader geopolitical implications for international trade and finance.
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From Tutor to China Expert
- Zongyuan Zoe Liu worked as a tutor for SAT, GRE, and GMAT prep at a leading Chinese education company.
- This experience inspired her to pursue graduate studies in the US focusing on international political economy.
US Views on China Sour
- US public opinion of China shifted negative around 2013 and has worsened dramatically since.
- This rising negative sentiment helped fuel political movements blaming China for job losses and economic woes.
China's Dual View on US
- Chinese public remains enthusiastic about the US despite official political tensions.
- The Chinese government sees the US as a strategic competitor, but people distinguish between leaders and culture.