Sinica Podcast

Kendra Schaefer, a partner at Trivium China, shares her expertise on China's generative AI landscape. She delves into the government's unique algorithm registration system and its implications for innovation. Kendra highlights the competition between state-affiliated and private firms, and discusses how AI is revolutionizing the education and healthcare sectors. The conversation also covers the challenges foreign companies face and the significance of recent regulatory developments, providing a comprehensive view of the intricacies in China's AI journey.

In this engaging discussion, Jeremy Goldkorn, writer and editor-in-chief of the chinaweek.com newsletter, dives into the controversial revocation of Chinese student visas amid rising U.S.-China tensions. He explores the implications for both international education and local economies. The conversation touches on the emotional weight of scapegoating policies, anti-Asian sentiment, and the historical injustices faced by minority groups. With a mix of humor and insight, Goldkorn reflects on the broader cultural rifts in today's sociopolitical landscape.

Ivan Us, Chief Consultant at the Center for Foreign Policy, discusses the U.S.-Ukraine Mineral Security Partnership. Jim Mullinax, a former Consul General, weighs in on military aid and political negotiations shaping Ukraine's alliance with the U.S. Grzegorz Stec examines the implications for European stability, while Xu Qinduo highlights China's strategic mineral leverage amid trade tensions. They delve into the complexities of resource security, the potential exclusion of China from reconstruction efforts, and how mineral diplomacy could impact global alliances.

Eva Dou, a technology reporter for the Washington Post and author of 'House of Huawei', dives deep into the company’s complex history. She discusses the impact of Meng Wanzhou's arrest on Huawei's international standing and media relations. Dou explores the influence of founder Ren Zhengfei's military background on company culture, the role of women in leadership, and Huawei's relationship with the Chinese state. She also sheds light on how U.S. sanctions have shaped the company's strategies and its significant involvement in 5G technology amid geopolitical tensions.

In this engaging discussion, Lizzi Lee, a Fellow on Chinese Economy at the Asia Society Policy Institute, dives into the recent U.S.-China trade negotiations, highlighting how unexpected tariff reductions could reshape the economic landscape. The conversation shifts to the noteworthy J-10C dogfight between India and Pakistan, exploring the implications of China's military technology. They also touch on the complex dynamics of global trade and the evolving U.S.-China relations, adding depth with insights on geopolitical tensions and the intersection of military innovation and diplomacy.

The talk highlights China's swift technological growth and the global trade tensions it prompts. It reveals America's discomfort with this shift, seeing China evolve from a low-cost manufacturer to a tech leader. The discussion delves into how racism and Orientalism impact perceptions of China, calling for a deeper understanding of its creative landscape. Additionally, it contrasts Western techno-pessimism with China’s optimism regarding innovation and emphasizes the importance of strategic empathy to reduce tensions.

Bob Davis, a veteran Wall Street Journal reporter with decades of experience covering U.S.-China relations, discusses his book 'Broken Engagement,' featuring interviews with pivotal U.S. policymakers. He shares insights on whether the engagement strategy was flawed from the beginning and highlights compelling anecdotes from interviews with Nancy Pelosi and others. Key topics include the implications of Taiwan visits, misreading Xi Jinping, and how COVID reshaped perspectives. Davis provides a nuanced look at the challenges and shifts in U.S. diplomacy towards China.

Finbarr Bermingham, Senior Europe Correspondent for the South China Morning Post, brings insightful analysis to the evolving EU-China relationship from Brussels. He discusses the impact of sanctions and diverging EU member state interests, emphasizing the shifting dynamics prompted by U.S. policies. Bermingham highlights China's diplomatic approach and the complexities of Europe’s dual strategy. Additionally, he reflects on personal experiences from his upbringing in Northern Ireland, adding depth to the geopolitical discussion.

Benno Weiner, an Associate Professor of History at Carnegie Mellon University, specializes in China's nationalism and ethnic policy. He discusses the evolution of China's minzu policy, highlighting the shift from Soviet-inspired strategies to current assimilation tactics. Weiner delves into the complexities of language policy, the implications for Uyghurs, and the limited advocacy options available for ethnic minorities. He also addresses global perceptions of Xinjiang and the enduring effects of Han guilt in today's political climate.

In this enlightening discussion, Yawei Liu, Senior Advisor for China at the Carter Center, and Yukon Huang, former World Bank China head, delve into the complexities of U.S.-China relations. They explore the misunderstandings fueling trade tensions and the impact of innovation in both nations. Liu introduces the concept of 'the clash of misperceptions,' while Huang addresses how historical ties shape current dynamics. They emphasize the need for constructive dialogue and the potential for collaboration amidst ongoing cultural and economic challenges.