ChinaTalk

Eddie Fishman, a former member of Obama's State Department Policy Planning Staff and a fellow at the Atlantic Council, dives deep into the complexities of economic sanctions. He discusses their historical evolution, effectiveness, and how they often fail to achieve their goals. The conversation critically examines the consequences of sanctions on international relations, especially with China, while stressing the necessity for clear objectives and adaptability. Eddie also shares insightful book recommendations, connecting U.S. history and foreign policy.

Yuan Yuan Ang, a Professor at the University of Michigan and author of "China's Gilded Age," dives deep into the intriguing nexus of corruption and governance in China. She explains how rapid economic growth coexists with corruption, contrasting 'access money' at higher bureaucracy levels with 'speed money' below. The conversation touches on the evolution of corruption since Deng Xiaoping's reforms, the unique challenges women face in politics, and draws parallels between China’s current state and America's historical Gilded Age.

This discussion features Tina Huang and Remco Zwetsloot, both CSET researchers with deep knowledge in AI talent and immigration policy. They explore the recent H1B visa ban, highlighting its potential impact on America's tech ecosystem and national security. The conversation dives into how this ban could affect competition with China and discusses the broader implications of immigration policies on innovation. They also compare the U.S. immigration process with other countries, offering insights into attracting global talent during these critical times.

Akhil Bery, an analyst at the Eurasia Group with a focus on geopolitical issues, joins former senior analyst Sasha Riser Kositsky, who’s now pursuing an MBA. They dive deep into the recent deadly clashes on the China-India border, unraveling the historical context and territorial claims that fuel these tensions. The conversation explores future implications for US-India relations, India's economic strategies, and even adds a dash of humor with comedic improvisation about international diplomacy. It's a lively and insightful discussion on a complex geopolitical landscape.

Antony Dapiran, a lawyer and author known for his works on Hong Kong protests, delves into the turmoil following the 2019 demonstrations. He examines the vilification of protesters by the government and its implications for Hong Kong's youth and professional classes. Dapiran draws parallels between Hong Kong's struggles and global movements like Black Lives Matter. He also highlights the impact of Beijing's national security law on the city’s autonomy and the profound challenges to Hong Kong's cultural identity amidst ongoing repression.

Evan Osnos, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for his incisive reporting on China and the U.S., discusses significant historical parallels between Tiananmen Square and contemporary protests in America. He critiques the moral responsibilities of leadership, drawing contrasts between figures like Trump and Deng Xiaoping. Osnos emphasizes the urgency of social justice while reflecting on Martin Luther King Jr.'s influence. The conversation underscores the collective journey toward equality, highlighting the ongoing struggle for human dignity across nations.

Mara Hvistendahl, a science journalist and author of "The Scientist and the Spy," sheds light on the intriguing world of Chinese industrial espionage. She discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by Chinese researchers under pressure to publish at any cost. The narrative dives into a gripping case involving GM corn smuggling and explores the complexities of the seed industry amidst corporate espionage. Hvistendahl also examines the contrasting perceptions of industrial theft and the implications of legal investigations on Asian American scientists, painting a vivid picture of espionage dynamics.

Dive into the high-stakes world of AI research funding as experts unpack the spending trends in China versus the U.S. Uncover the crucial role of talent in shaping the future of AI, influenced heavily by visa programs and immigration policies. Explore the delicate balance between basic and applied research, as well as the challenges of measuring competitiveness in this fast-evolving field. The discussion also highlights the complexity of AI standards and the urgent need for clear regulatory frameworks to ensure safety and reliability.

Dan Grover, a product manager with insights from his time at Tencent, reveals how Chinese tech companies quickly adapted to COVID-19, implementing innovative solutions like telemedicine and QR health codes. He discusses the fears of a 'digital leviathan' emerging from these health monitoring systems. Ravish Bhatia shares stark realities from India, highlighting the plight of migrant workers and the impact of lockdowns on society. Together, they explore the complex balance between public health and privacy in today's digital landscape.

Yangyang Cheng, a keen observer of the COVID-19 crisis, shares poignant conversations with her mother that highlight the complexities of family dynamics against the backdrop of authoritarian governance in China. Asmod, from Nepal, recounts the struggles of a tourism-reliant economy, revealing the impact on daily wage workers and corruption in health procurement. The dialogue encompasses the social upheaval and challenges faced by migrant workers in Singapore, all woven together with themes of isolation and the universal need for connection during a global crisis.