Olivia Cheung

Olivia Cheung, author of 'The Political Thought of Xi Jinping,' shares fascinating insights into China's powerful leader. They discuss Xi's formative years, touching on his early struggles within the CCP and his anti-corruption strategies. The conversation also unpacks China's soft power maneuvers in Africa and its burgeoning electric vehicle industry. Cheung emphasizes how Xi's governance blends authoritarianism with economic opportunity, while exploring the concept of Tianxia and China's ambitions for global influence.

Steve Tsang, Director of the China Institute, and Olivia Cheung, Research Fellow there, dive into the nuances of Xi Jinping's political thought. They discuss how 'Xi Jinping Thought' serves as a state ideology aiming to unite and rejuvenate China, all while consolidating power reminiscent of past leaderships. Insights on his coercive policies and the enforced ideology reveal a landscape rich in systemic propaganda. They also explore Xi's calls for ethnic unity and a shift in global leadership, paving the way for China's rise amid complex U.S.-China relations.