ChinaTalk

Bill Bishop, author of the influential Sinocism newsletter, dives deep into the complexities of US-China relations. He unpacks how China's handling of COVID-19 reflects broader political tactics and the CCP's response to blame shifting. The conversation shifts to Taiwan's proactive stance amid rising tensions and the implications of foreign journalist expulsions on media freedom. Bishop also shares insights on binge-worthy Chinese dramas that reveal societal narratives, showcasing the interplay between culture and politics.

Ryan Manuel, managing director of Official China and a former lecturer, brings his expertise to the discussion on how China's unique governance impacts health care and national security. They dive into the lessons learned from COVID-19 and SARS, highlighting the challenges of local-central relations. The conversation turns to the history of rural healthcare, including the innovative Barefoot Doctors campaign. Ryan also explores the shift from Hu Jintao’s model to Xi Jinping’s approach, showcasing the complexities and dark humor of navigating Chinese policy.

Tony Lin, a producer at Quartz and expert on Chinese online communities, dives into the impact of coronavirus on censorship in China. He discusses how candid discussions emerged during the outbreak, revealing a temporary relaxation of restrictions. Tony highlights the shift in public discourse, with citizens openly criticizing the government. He humorously suggests a reality TV show to increase transparency. The conversation also touches on misinformation and the resilience of citizen journalism, showcasing a growing critical awareness among the populace.

Gordon Orr, a senior advisor at McKinsey & Company and board member at Lenovo and Meituan-Dianping, dives into the complex economic landscape of U.S.-China relations. He discusses the collateral damage from the trade war and its impact on consumer behavior, especially within the electric vehicle sector. Orr highlights Tesla’s potential ties to Huawei amid shifting market dynamics and the rise of young Chinese consumers prioritizing experiences over home ownership. The conversation also touches on technology tensions and evolving industrial policies.

Weijian Shan, Chairman and CEO of PAG Group and author of "Out of the Gobi," shares his inspiring journey from a teenage exile during the Cultural Revolution to leading a major investment firm. He reflects on the personal toll of this era and contrasts it with China’s current economic reforms. Shan discusses state-owned company challenges, the complexities of U.S.-China trade relations, and the recent protests in Hong Kong, urging for gradual reform and a richer discourse on freedom and democracy.

Adam Segal, the Director of the Digital and Cyberspace Policy Program at the Council on Foreign Relations, tackles the intense tech rivalry between the U.S. and China. He discusses the pressures on Chinese scientists and questions the implications of who funds research and development. Segal argues for enhanced federal funding to maintain U.S. competitiveness and evaluates antitrust regulations' potential effects on innovation. He also highlights the cultural divides in tech and the need for collaboration to navigate the evolving global landscape.

Jane Li, a Chongqing native and a technology reporter for Quartz, talks through some of the differences between Twitter and its Chinese equivalent, Weibo. She also discusses the website Douban, the lively and open discussion among its young users, and the threat that looming censorship poses to it. In addition, she provides details on why some Chinese internet users have turned their backs on Huawei in the wake of an extended jail term served by one of its employees.  4:10: Twitter vs. Weibo — what’s the difference? 6:52: The “China Twitter” maelstrom  11:06: Online discourse regarding the Hong Kong protests 14:23: What is “251” and how does it relate to Huawei? 20:04: The Douban online ecosystem Get bonus content on Patreon See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Chatwin, author of "Long Peace Street: A Walk in Modern China," dives into the rich history of Chang’an Avenue in Beijing, exploring its role as a stage for pivotal events and protests. He reflects on the complex legacy of military leader Peng Dehuai at Baobaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery and critiques the portrayal of history in Chinese museums. Chatwin shares insights on the contrast between vibrant community life in other cities and Beijing's sterile modernity, highlighting how technology influences social connections.

In this discussion, Paul Triolo, head of geotechnology at the Eurasia Group, shares his insights on the complexities of the U.S.-China tech rivalry. He delves into the transformative impact of 5G and the competitive landscape of companies like Huawei. Triolo also examines the significant barriers foreign talent face in China's tech scene and critiques current blind spots in Chinese tech policy. The conversation highlights the geopolitical implications of AI advancements and how they reshape global markets, underscoring the intricate web of technology, politics, and security.

Jeremiah Jenne, a history teacher and creator of Beijing by Foot, dives into Beijing's rich history and rapid transformation. He discusses how the Chinese Communist Party has reshaped narratives about the Qing dynasty, from criticism to celebration. The conversation also touches on the contrasting historical portrayals between Beijing and Taipei, exploring ideological influences on museums. Jenne shares insights on urbanization's impact on local culture and the fascinating experiences of tour guides navigating a complex ideological landscape.