ChinaTalk

Duoduodiliao dives into the vibrant world of Chinese hip hop, showcasing his favorite tracks from 2020. The blend of soul rap, Caribbean beats, and drill music highlights the genre's evolution. He spotlights P08's poetic lyricism and explores the unique perspectives of Chengdu's rap scene. The inspiring journey of Uyghur rapper A3 sheds light on cultural identity and the socio-political landscape in Xinjiang. This engaging discussion illustrates how hip hop serves as a powerful medium for artistic expression and storytelling.

Peter Harrell and Liz Rosenberg, both CNAS fellows and former Obama administration officials, delve into the evolution of U.S. sanctions policy and its effectiveness in U.S.-China relations. They discuss how the Trump administration refined coercive economic measures and the role of law enforcement in combating trade malpractices. The conversation also highlights the ethical challenges of sanctions compliance, the dynamic shifts between administrations, and even creative pitches for TV shows centered around sanctions themes, mixing serious analysis with a touch of humor.

Wendy Cutler, a former trade diplomat with 28 years at the US Trade Representative and now vice president of the Asia Society, shares her insights on US-China trade policy. She discusses how President Biden might engage Beijing by leveraging allies' concerns. The conversation delves into the evolving dynamics since China's WTO entry, the challenges of state intervention in China's economy, and the importance of modernizing the WTO to maintain global trade stability. Wendy also reveals some creative trade policy ideas, including a surprisingly humorous concept involving a Strategic Shiraz Reserve.

Xiaowei Wang, the author of "Blockchain Chicken Farm," delves into the fascinating impact of technology on rural China. She shares insights about Taobao villages, where Halloween costumes are crafted amidst cultural transformations. The discussion includes blockchain's role in ensuring food safety in chicken farming, revealing the creative and skeptical responses from farmers. Wang also recounts her travels in Guizhou, highlighting the unique blend of nostalgia and modernization, and offers a humorous take on pearl parties juxtaposed with culinary innovations.

Emily Weinstein, an expert on open source research of Chinese technology at CSET, dives into the complexities of analyzing China's technological landscape. She shares insights on deciphering Chinese media and the challenges of language translation tools. The conversation reveals the intricacies of China’s talent acquisition strategies like the Thousand Talents Program, and explores military-civil fusion in the aerospace sector. Additionally, Emily critically assesses AI's role in China's COVID-19 response, highlighting both its applications and limitations.

Yun Jiang, Editor of the China Story blog and director at the China Policy Centre, delves into the turbulent history of Australia-China relations. She highlights how trade ties began to fray post-2017, fueled by foreign interference concerns and a controversial COVID-19 probe proposal. The discussion also covers the emergence of a parliamentary group opposing Chinese influence and China's grievances against Australia, alongside the intricate balance of national security and diplomacy. Jiang emphasizes learning from other nations' experiences to navigate these complex waters.

In a fascinating discussion, the potential of open-source technology emerges as a key strategy for both the U.S. and China. The podcast dives into China's complex Twitter influence campaigns, revealing lessons from global disinformation efforts. It also highlights intriguing Chinese TV shows that explore societal themes and the evolving landscape of Chinese rap music. The conversation touches on the technological rivalry impacting Caribbean telecom and anticipates shifts in U.S.-China policy under the Biden administration, making it a rich blend of culture and politics.

Jake Sullivan, former National Security Advisor and current Yale Law School professor, dives into the intricate dynamics of U.S.-China relations. He critiques the language barriers and negotiation styles that hinder diplomacy. Sullivan emphasizes the need for a strategic U.S. focus on actions over expectations from China. The conversation encompasses trade policy shifts since 2016, the role of human rights, and the importance of redefining the narrative around U.S.-China engagement, highlighting a balanced approach to national security.

H.R. McMaster, former National Security Advisor and Lieutenant General, shares insights from his time in the Trump administration. He humorously contemplates which Seinfeld character could lead as NSA while criticizing 'strategic narcissism' in U.S. policy. McMaster dives into the evolution of U.S.-China relations, emphasizing the need for strategic empathy and understanding adversaries. He reflects on historical leadership lessons, tackling the complexities of international diplomacy and the importance of unity in addressing global challenges.

In this insightful discussion, David F. Gordon, a senior advisor at IISS and former director of policy planning under Condoleezza Rice, dives into Biden's foreign policy approach. He explores the complexities of U.S.-China relations, addressing the challenges of aligning domestic priorities with international strategies. Gordon highlights the impact of tech and trade debates, the struggle for activists amid increased surveillance in Hong Kong, and the importance of rebuilding alliances in Asia. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of billionaires in shaping foreign policy.