In this episode, Dr. John Lee, a political scientist at the Hudson Institute and expert on Chinese political economy, dives deep into China's military expansion and its geopolitical ambitions. He outlines how the Chinese Communist Party is leveraging authoritarian governance for rapid modernization, while juggling human rights concerns. The conversation also touches on China's response to global events like the Ukraine crisis and its assertiveness regarding Taiwan. Lee emphasizes the need for the West to adapt its strategies in light of China's growing influence.

John Lee, a senior fellow at the Asia Society Switzerland, delves into the transformative power of Chinese technology in the Global South. He discusses the launch of DeepSeek, a disruptive AI platform, and its implications for the global market. Lee explores how open-source AI can democratize technology access in less-developed nations. He also highlights the growing dominance of Chinese electric vehicles in Southeast Asia, examining competition for local manufacturers and the impact of advanced technologies on regional automotive landscapes.

John Lee, a Senior Fellow at the Asia Society Switzerland and seasoned technology analyst, dives into the transformative potential of Chinese innovations in AI and automotive tech for the Global South. He analyzes how DeepSeek's launch has shifted the AI landscape, making advanced tech more accessible to developing countries. The discussion also covers the impact of Chinese electric vehicles in Southeast Asia, regulatory challenges surrounding data privacy, and the rise of open-source models, highlighting the democratization of technology in these regions.