#230 A Strange Illness Is Spreading In China. Again.
Dec 4, 2023
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Discussion on a mysterious illness spreading in China, worse than COVID, with overwhelmed hospitals and impact on Chinese economy. The complex world of pandas, including their return to China, high cost, and potential use as a diplomatic tool. Exploration of US-China relations, historical context, and Biden administration's approach. Amusing conversation on movie sequels and introduction of fictional extreme version of podcast show.
There is a new and severe disease outbreak in China called microplasmid pneumonia, affecting young and healthy individuals.
The loaning of pandas by China to zoos around the world is an expensive arrangement causing financial struggles for some zoos.
Deep dives
New disease spreading in China and its international impact
There is a new disease spreading in China called microplasmid pneumonia, which has higher reported cases in Ohio and some countries in Europe. The disease is cyclical, with occurrences happening every seven to ten years. However, the current outbreak in China seems to be more severe than previous instances. The disease is particularly affecting young, healthy people, unlike COVID-19. Hospitals in China are overwhelmed, and there are reports of inadequate staffing. The fact that the Chinese Communist Party acknowledges the disease's existence suggests that it is severe enough to warrant attention, as they often try to cover up illnesses.
The high cost and limitations of panda loan agreements
China has loaned pandas to zoos around the world, but the arrangements come at a significant cost for the receiving zoos. The pandas have to be paid for yearly, with each panda costing up to a million dollars. The offspring of the pandas also belong to China. This expensive arrangement has led some zoos to struggle financially, impacting other conservation efforts. The return of pandas from various zoos signals the possible end of an era of loaning pandas. The prospect of keeping pandas born in the US as permanent residents has been suggested as part of a short-of-war tactic to counter China's influence.
The potential end of the era shaped by Henry Kissinger's engagement with China
Henry Kissinger's historical visit to China in 1971 marked the beginning of an era of engagement between the US and China as a counterbalance to the Soviet Union. However, the trajectory of US-China relations has raised concerns. The engagement school of thought, which supports continued interaction with China, seems to be gaining traction. Nevertheless, the Trump administration's tough stance towards China and the recognition of the Chinese Communist Party as a dictatorship have influenced the direction of US-China relations. Kissinger's death signifies the possible end of an era and the potential for a shift in approach.
The importance of observing Chinese influence in elections, focusing on Taiwan
The influence exerted by the Chinese Communist Party in elections, particularly in Taiwan, highlights the significance of monitoring these dynamics. Recent events, such as the Foxconn chairman dropping out of the race in Taiwan, demonstrate China's attempts to manipulate the political landscape. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Taiwan, which aligns with pro-independence sentiments and takes a firm stance against the Chinese Communist Party's influence, is expected to have a better chance in the upcoming election. The engagement school's preference for pro-CCP candidates raises concerns about the party's influence on foreign political systems and the need for vigilance.
Chinese hospitals are filling up, and the Chinese government is claiming these are just seasonal illnesses.But they seem a lot worse than usual, leading some to question the official narrative. In this just us episode of China Unscripted, we discuss whether what's spreading is just seasonal or if there's something more going on, the challenges of reshoring American manufacturing, and the scourge of China's pandas.
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