Jessica Chen Weiss

Jessica Chen Weiss, a Cornell professor and former State Department advisor, dives into the complex U.S.-China relationship. She highlights the dangerous bipartisan consensus in Washington that views China as a threat. Weiss discusses how this perception could lead to an escalatory spiral, emphasizing the need for dialogue over confrontation. She examines the importance of mutual interests amidst rising tensions and contrasts the two nations' value systems, urging for collaboration to address pressing global issues.

Ali Wyne, a China expert from RAND, and Jessica Chen Weiss, a Cornell professor focused on Chinese politics, dive deep into the complexities of U.S.-China relations. They unpack the discrepancies between China's stated intentions and its actions, revealing historical influences on its foreign policy. The conversation highlights the diplomatic challenges posed by Xi Jinping's leadership, the importance of selective engagement, and the Biden administration's need for a comprehensive strategy to counter authoritarianism while promoting U.S. leadership.

Bonnie Glaser, Jessica Chen Weiss, and Thomas Christensen discuss the role of credible assurances in effective deterrence. They emphasize the need for conditioning the threat of punishment and outline necessary actions for the US, China, and Taiwan. The podcast explores the challenges of providing credible assurances, balancing assurances and threats in Taiwan, and maintaining consistent actions and rhetoric.