In this bonus episode, Jane Perlez sits down with New York Times national security and White House correspondent David Sanger. In this candid conversation, they talk about his new bestseller: New Cold Wars: China's Rise, Russia's Invasion, and America's Struggle to Defend the West. Plus they discuss Sanger's views on where the US - China relationship is headed, how he worries about the friendship between China and Russia, and a party in New York City where talk turned to the subject of nuclear weapons. This conversation was recorded in August 2024 at a surf club in Sydney, Australia. Follow David Sanger on Twitter at @SangerNYT.Sound design, original score, mixing and mastering by Rowhome Productions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former professor Lyle Goldstein and Taiwanese expert Syaru Shirley Lin discuss the possibility of US-China war over Taiwan, including historical context, military strategies, global ramifications, Taiwan-China relations, and the imperative of quality diplomacy to prevent conflict.

Keyu Jin and Elsie Chen discuss China's economic downturn, real estate meltdown, tech entrepreneurs disappearing, college graduates opting out. Elsie Chen's article on 'lying flat' trend. Analysis of Chinese economy, US-China relations, and Taiwan tensions.

Authors John DeLury and Nigel Inkster discuss China's espionage tactics and the US-China intelligence relationship. They delve into historical cases, the evolution of Chinese intelligence, challenges in monitoring Chinese activities, and China's unique intelligence structure. The podcast offers insights on global intelligence alliances and China's geopolitical influence.

Chinese born professor Minxin Pei discusses the evolving relationship between Xi Jinping and Joe Biden, highlighting misconceptions about Xi's leadership. They explore Xi's strategic vision, foreign relationships, and the dynamics between Xi and Biden. The podcast also touches on Biden's briefing before meeting Xi, CIA profiling on China, surveillance in China, and espionage rivalry between the US and China.

Yo Yo Ma discusses how music can ease tensions between the U.S. and China, highlighting the cultural impact of his music. The podcast delves into Yo Yo Ma's childhood influences, reflections on cultural identity, and the role of music in providing comfort. It also explores the delicate balance between optimism and pessimism in challenging times and discusses the intertwining of classical music, philosophical questions, and global relations.

Tong Zhao discusses China's expanding nuclear arsenal, AI control of nuclear weapons, and the possibility of arms control agreements with the U.S. Topics include Xi Jinping's strategic shift, new missile silos, global geopolitical implications, and the impact of anti-corruption measures on Chinese politics.

Prof. Willy Shih and Wayne Ma discuss Apple's reliance on China for iPhone manufacturing, the challenges faced by the tech giant, and the strategic moves to maintain their relationship. They delve into Apple's diversification struggles, competition with Huawei, and China's response to US bans while exploring the evolving tech landscape.

Former Commander US Pacific Fleet, Admiral Scott Swift, discusses the tense airspace encounters between US and China, highlighting the risks of potential conflicts. The podcast explores the importance of formal military talks, the consequences of nation decline, and China's impact on global power dynamics. It also delves into the relationship between a US company and China, emphasizing the need for open communication to avoid escalations.

The podcast discusses a tense encounter between a US spy plane and a Chinese fighter jet in 2001, highlighting key moments in the complex US-China relationship. Insights from diplomats, artists like Yo-Yo Ma, and the potential for coexistence or confrontation between the two superpowers are also explored.