YouTube24 Nov 2025

What Does China Want? | The Impossible State

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Center for Strategic & International Studies

In this episode of "The Impossible State" podcast, Dr. Victor Cha hosts a discussion with Dr. Zenobia Chan and Henrietta Levin about China's strategic ambitions. The conversation begins with Henrietta Levin's analysis of a recent Trump-Xi meeting, highlighting potential shifts in the U.S.-China relationship. Dr. Chan presents her research, arguing that China's ambitions are primarily focused on domestic stability rather than global hegemony, based on an analysis of official publications and speeches. The discussion explores the nuances between China's rhetoric and actions, particularly in areas like the South China Sea, and examines how China's focus on internal challenges influences its foreign policy decisions, including its relationship with Russia. The guests also discuss the implications of these dynamics for other countries in the region and the evolving perspectives on cooperation between the U.S. and China.

Outlines

Part 1: Introduction and De-escalation

Part 2: China's Strategic Ambitions

Part 3: Regional Implications and Strategic Goals

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