Pekingology Kurt Campbell on China Strategy and Diplomacy
8 snips
Jul 10, 2025 
Kurt Campbell, former Deputy Secretary of State and President Biden’s Asia Czar, shares his insights on U.S.-China relations. He delves into Beijing's perception of American power and the shifting dynamics under the Biden administration. Campbell highlights the ideological motivations driving Xi Jinping and discusses how the U.S. can reshape its strategies through strengthened alliances. He emphasizes the importance of authentic dialogue in diplomacy, especially amid historical tensions and evolving regional politics in the Indo-Pacific.
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China's View on U.S. Decline
- Chinese leaders have long perceived American decline, dating back to historical events such as the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
- By 2020, President Xi firmly believed the U.S. was in decline, influencing China's strategic posture.
Communicating China Strategy Matters
- Effective China strategy requires clear, consistent communication alongside action.
- Increasing public and institutional understanding of Indo-Pacific dynamics must be prioritized.
Xi Jinping's Ideological Drive
- President Xi's worldview is deeply shaped by ideology and his belief in the Communist Party's central role.
- He sees himself and the party as inseparable forces driving China's future, leading to ongoing purges to maintain party purity.
