Brief Summary
This episode of Policy Beats features Colonel Jen Xi Jang, a senior research fellow, discussing China's perspective on the global order, US-China relations, and China's strategic relationship with Pakistan. He emphasizes China's desire for peaceful development and multipolarity, addresses concerns about NATO's relevance, and highlights the economic interdependence between China and the US. The discussion also covers the strategic importance of CPEC, regional stability in Afghanistan, and potential areas for cooperation and learning between China and Pakistan.
- China advocates for peaceful development and a multipolar world.
- Economic interdependence and nuclear weapons serve as deterrents to war between China and the US.
- CPEC is vital for both Pakistan and China, with potential expansion into Afghanistan and Bangladesh.
- Regional cooperation and dialogue are crucial for improving security and stability.
- China and Pakistan can learn from each other's strategic cultures and experiences.
Introduction and Background
The episode begins with an introduction of Colonel Jen Xi Jang, highlighting his extensive background in military service and research, particularly his experience in South Asia and his current role at the Jar Institute. Colonel Jang expresses his happiness to return to Pakistan after 23 years, reflecting on his long tenure in South Asia, including postings in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Nepal, as well as his experience as a military observer in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He shares that his early aspiration to join the army was inspired by his family's military background, particularly his uncle's participation in the Chinese revolution.
China's Vision of the Global Order
Colonel Jang explains that China envisions a world with peaceful development and encourages multipolarity, contrasting it with the current dominance of a single superpower. He questions the continued existence of NATO in the absence of the Warsaw Pact, suggesting there is no clear threat justifying its presence. He recounts a discussion with Australian diplomats, questioning their perceived threat from China, given the significant economic benefits Australia derives from trade and educational exchanges with China. He humorously suggests that the real threat to Australia might be potential annexation by the United States, drawing on historical examples of US expansionist tendencies.
US-China Rivalry and Cooperation
Colonel Jang addresses the US-China rivalry, noting the discomfort it causes globally, including in Pakistan. He suggests that a win-win situation through cooperation is possible, despite the troubles created by previous US administrations. He argues that the relationship between China and the US differs significantly from the Cold War dynamic between the US and the Soviet Union due to two key factors: both countries possess nuclear weapons, creating a deterrent to war, and their economies are highly integrated, meaning that any disruption in one country will negatively impact the other. While Western countries have attempted to decouple economically from China, business communities often disagree with these policies.
Strategic Value of Pakistan-China Relationship
Colonel Jang emphasizes that China views Pakistan as a stabilizer in the region, playing a crucial role in balancing power dynamics. He highlights the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, expressing confidence that security challenges can be managed. He envisions CPEC expanding to include Afghanistan and Bangladesh, potentially forming a regional corridor, and hopes that India will eventually participate, extending the corridor eastward.
China's Role in Regional Stability Post-US Afghanistan
Colonel Jang underscores the importance of Pakistan developing good relations with its western neighbors, Afghanistan and Iran, to ensure regional stability. He suggests helping Afghanistan strengthen its ruling ability and encourages anti-terrorism cooperation, including potential cross-border joint operations. He stresses the need for diplomatic solutions and cooperation to address regional challenges.
Cultural Exchange and Strategic Learning
Colonel Jang acknowledges the importance of language learning for better understanding between China and Pakistan, noting the numerous scholarships China offers to Pakistani students. He points out that the strategic communities of China and Pakistan should learn from each other, particularly Pakistan's experience in hybrid warfare and counterinsurgency. He appreciates the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries, fostered through education and cultural exchange, and suggests improving communication through infrastructure projects like railways to connect faster to Shinjang.
Recommendations for Improving Security and Global Order
Colonel Jang recommends regional cooperation, particularly with Afghanistan and Iran, to improve Pakistan's security situation. He suggests establishing cooperation mechanisms and encourages dialogue with India to resolve issues, proposing joint investigations to avoid blame games. He suggests involving important regional countries to play a leverage role and proposes a China, Russia, India, Pakistan mechanism for discussions. He notes the prolonged period of strained relations between Pakistan and India, exacerbated by the Kashmir issue, and emphasizes that the future of Kashmir should be decided by its people, as per UN resolutions. He sees the global order continuing with competing forces, with China and its allies acting as stabilizers, and expresses hope that the global south will prevail. He cautions Pakistan to be vigilant against potential threats, referencing the situations in Palestine, Iran, and Iraq.
