The Asia Chessboard

Reflecting on the complexities of understanding China's political landscape, the discussion delves into the evolving methodologies in Sinology amid Xi Jinping's rise. Analyzing China's global ambitions, they explore the implications of U.S.-China tensions and historical diplomatic missteps. The interaction of China with Russia, North Korea, and Iran highlights potential alliances in a turbulent geopolitical environment. The conversation underscores the critical need for allied nations in the Asia-Pacific to navigate economic security amidst growing assertiveness from Beijing.

This week Mike and Jude are joined by Aaron Connelly, Asia diplomatic editor and senior Asia correspondent at The Economist, where he writes about geopolitics and security across Asia. They discuss his recent Adelphi Series book New Answers to Old Questions: Myanmar Before and After the 2021 Coup D’État.

Rick Waters, managing director of Eurasia Group's China practice and former top China policy official at the US State Department, dives into the nuanced world of US-China relations. He discusses the significant political shifts under Xi Jinping, emphasizing centralization and the impact of the 'Made in China 2025' initiative. Waters explores China's cautious strategy amid US election uncertainties, detailing its effects on trade and alliances. He also shares insights on crisis management, including the EP-3 incident, and calls for a collaborative US approach with allies to navigate these strategic complexities.

This week Mike and Jude are joined by David Capie, Director of the Centre for Strategic Studies and Professor of International Relations at the Victoria University of Wellington. They discuss New Zealand’s transitioning approach to its regional relationships.

This week Mike is joined by Elina Noor, Senior Fellow for the Asia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. They discuss Malaysia’s approach to geopolitics and outlook for the future.

Robert D. Blackwill, a senior fellow for U.S. Foreign Policy at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Richard Fontaine, CEO of the Center for a New American Security, dive deep into America's strategic pivot to Asia. They discuss their new book, 'Lost Decade', addressing the complexities of U.S. foreign policy amid China's rise. The duo explores Xi Jinping's leadership misinterpretations, the challenges of the pivot during the Obama administration, and the critical need for a cohesive U.S. strategy in navigating the changing power dynamics in Asia.

This week Mike and Jude are joined by join Lt. General Stephen Sklenka, USMC, Deputy Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. They discuss deterrence and the current state of play in the Indo-Pacific region.

Benedetta Berti from NATO discusses NATO's perspectives on the Indo-Pacific, transitioning from academia to policy-making, strategic competition among authoritarian countries, geopolitical alignment, the upcoming NATO Summit, and strengthening defense collaboration.

Financial Times correspondent Kathrin Hille joins to discuss Taiwan under President Lai, US relations, and Beijing's response. Topics include political turmoil in the Legislative Yuan, Taiwan's foreign policy strategy, defense dynamics, and divergent leadership approaches in Taiwanese politics.

Professor Andrew Oros discusses demographic shifts in Asia and their impact on security in the region. Topics include aging populations, low birth rates, and the significance of demographics on national power. The conversation also delves into Japan's efforts to increase women representation in the military and China's approach to addressing demographic challenges affecting its military capabilities.