In this discussion, Ryan Fedasiuk, U.S. Director of The Future Society and former U.S.-China advisor, teams up with Steve Hsu, theoretical physicist and host of Manifold. They explore the impacts of U.S. semiconductor export controls on China, debating whether these measures truly widen the tech gap or inadvertently boost Chinese innovation. The duo dives into the complexities of the semiconductor landscape, challenges faced by Chinese AI firms, and the geopolitical implications of AI competition between the two nations.

Charlie Parton, a former British diplomat in Beijing and chief advisor to the Council on Geostrategy’s China Observatory, delves into China's 'United Front' strategy. He explains how this tactic serves the CCP’s agenda by shaping political landscapes and influencing societal groups. The conversation highlights the implications of elite capture, including Prince Andrew's ties to Chinese business. Parton discusses the risks of foreign lobbying on democratic institutions and the UK's strategies to counter Chinese influence, emphasizing the need for transparency and robust governance.

In this enlightening conversation, technology reporter Eva Dou, author of 'House of Huawei,' delves into the tumultuous history of the telecom giant. She uncovers the complexities of Huawei's relationship with the Chinese government and its significance in global telecommunications. Dou discusses Huawei’s ambitious rise, the influence of its founder Ren Zhengfei, and the implications of its ties to national security concerns. As tensions with the West escalate, she ponders the company's resilience and its potential journey ahead in a second Trump presidency.

In this engaging discussion, Peter Hessler, an award-winning journalist and author known for his insightful explorations of China, delves into the quirks of English names chosen by Chinese individuals. He explores how these names reflect aspirations and historical ties, revealing deep cultural insights. With humor and anecdotes, they touch on the transformative journey of a young farm boy and the impact of globalization on identity. The talk includes fascinating stories about the influence of basketball culture on naming trends, bridging East and West in modern Chinese society.

Join Demetri Sevastopulo, US-China correspondent for the Financial Times, and Oriana Skylar Mastro, a Stanford military expert and author, as they dive into the chaotic purges within China’s People's Liberation Army. They discuss the implications of Xi Jinping's ongoing investigations into top generals and the potential for future military actions over Taiwan. The conversation also explores the effectiveness of military reforms initiated in 2015, and whether these changes strengthen or weaken China’s military readiness amidst rising global tensions.

Professor Meredith Oyen, an expert on US-China migration, and Amy Hawkins, senior China correspondent at The Guardian, delve into the surge of Chinese migrants trekking through the perilous Darien Gap. They explore why this unprecedented migration is happening, driven by political repression and the promise of better futures. The guests discuss the role of technology in these journeys, and Hawkins shares insights on comparable patterns in Europe. Personal stories highlight the dangers families face as they seek asylum and safety, navigating a complex and shifting landscape.

Historian John Delury, a specialist in Cold War and East Asian history, joins Cindy Yu to dissect the shifting alliances of North Korea, Russia, and China. They consider the remarkable news of 11,000 North Korean troops reported in Russia, potentially signaling a new era of military collaboration. Delury explores historical tensions, Kim Jong-un's brutal consolidation of power, and the intricate dynamics between North Korea and China. The discussion also dives into how Russia’s isolation is reshaping its alliances and what that means for international stability.

Tom Miller, a senior analyst at Gavekal Research, Isabel Hilton, a veteran international reporter and founder of China Dialogue, and Austin Williams, an architect and academic, dive into China's current challenges. They discuss the economic slowdown, youth unemployment, and perceptions of decline. The panel explores urbanization, advancements in technology, and the Belt and Road Initiative's evolution. They also touch on issues of national identity, surveillance, and the balance of optimism amid political changes, providing a nuanced view of China's future.

Desmond Shum, author of the memoir Red Roulette and commentator on Chinese politics, delves into his harrowing experience as a successful businessman in China before his wife Whitney Duan's mysterious disappearance in 2017. He shares insights on the intricate power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party, the chilling effects of government corruption, and the brutal reality of Xi Jinping's political landscape. Shum also critiques the accuracy of China's economic growth reports and discusses the increasing risks faced by those who dare to speak out against the regime.

The discussion spotlights the fierce competition in AI development between China and the West. It explores China's unique regulatory landscape and the ideological motives driving its approach to generative AI. The role of tech giants like ByteDance takes center stage as they navigate the stringent demands of the state. The potential existential risks of unchecked AI advancements are examined, raising questions about global safety and the necessity for cross-border collaboration. Is this the beginning of an AI arms race?