Face-Off: The U.S. vs China The Xi Factor
12 snips
Dec 2, 2025 
Jake Sullivan, former U.S. National Security Advisor and Harvard professor, shares insights from his extensive dealings with Xi Jinping, revealing the contrast between Xi's public bravado and private diplomacy. He discusses China's strategic ambitions to surpass the U.S. and the implications of technological advances, including AI. Joining him is Rana Mitter, who offers historical context on China's military purges and the complexities of U.S.-China relations. Together, they explore the risks of China's rise and the resilience of both nations.
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Euphoric 2012 Lunch Turns Sour
- Jane Perlez recounts a 2012 State Department lunch where Xi Jinping as vice president was greeted with euphoric optimism.
- That early optimism contrasted sharply with later disappointment as Xi pursued tighter controls and repression in China.
Xi's Calm, Versatile Meeting Style
- Jake Sullivan says Xi projects physical presence and calm in meetings, shifting registers to draw counterparts out.
- That mix of preparation and off-the-cuff engagement makes talks with Xi substantive, not rote.
Contrast Between Rhetoric And Diplomatic Tone
- Sullivan notes Xi publicly denigrates the U.S. yet in bilateral meetings adopts a serious, businesslike tone.
- The public rhetoric creates atmospherics, but the in-room dynamic is pragmatic and focused on outcomes.
