ChinaTalk China/Russia + Why China's Making More Nukes
Apr 7, 2022
Tong Zhao, a fellow at the Carnegie Center in Beijing with expertise in China's nuclear program, sheds light on the intricacies of China's growing nuclear arsenal and its geopolitical implications. He discusses China's perception of NATO as an aggressor and critiques the technical illiteracy of policy experts. The podcast also examines China’s unique approach to nuclear deterrence and its conception of Russia as a rational actor in the context of the Ukraine conflict. Ultimately, Zhao emphasizes the urgent need for dialogue to prevent an arms race.
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Interest in Nuclear Policy
- Tong Zhao became interested in nuclear policy due to the high stakes.
- He finds it puzzling why humans resort to nuclear threats for peace.
China's Nuclear Development
- China developed nuclear weapons due to perceived threats and a desire for respect.
- The program progressed despite economic hardships, achieving a basic deterrent by the 1980s.
Glorification of Nuclear Program
- Recent Chinese media glorifies the 1960s nuclear program, highlighting its success and patriotism.
- This contrasts with Western views of the defense industry as self-serving.