China correspondent Denis Staunton sits down with Hugh Linehan to talk about the impact of Donald Trump’s reelection on the geopolitical landscape. Then he gives an overview of China’s internal dynamics and its role on the international stage, at a moment in time when both are in flux.
Topics include the rise and influence of tech billionaires in Trump’s administration, contrasts between his first and second terms, and the preparedness of global powers for Trump’s aggressive policies.
Denis also talks about China’s socio-economic landscape, highlighting the country’s economic challenges, the evolution of societal and familial norms due to the one-child policy, and the Chinese government’s efforts to combat corruption.
The discussion transitions to China’s international strategy, particularly its investment in African relationships and its positioning in global diplomacy amidst changing Western attitudes. Could Trump’s aggressive economic policies incentivise a closer relationship between Europe and Beijing?
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Finally, the potential for conflict over Taiwan is analysed, with Denis suggesting that despite tensions, China’s current economic prioritisation makes armed conflict unlikely.
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