CHINA

Some issues for discussion

Economic Practices and Global Influence

Trade Practices: China's state-driven economic model, including accusations of intellectual property theft, forced technology transfers, and unfair subsidies, are seen by many as distorting global markets. There are concerns that these practices disadvantage foreign firms and create unlevel playing fields.
Debt-trap Diplomacy: The Belt and Road Initiative, China's massive infrastructure project, has led to accusations of "debt-trap diplomacy" with claims that it saddles developing nations with unsustainable debt burdens, giving China leverage over their assets and politics.
Global Influence: Concerns exist about China's growing economic reach and technological advancements and how they influence the global power structure, norms, and governance. There's apprehension over the potential use of economic and diplomatic measures to achieve geopolitical goals.

Territorial Disputes and Military Ambitions

South China Sea: China's expansive claims and the buildup of artificial islands in the South China Sea lead to territorial disputes with Southeast Asian nations. There's an increased risk of militarization and escalation in this region.
Taiwan: China sees Taiwan as a breakaway province and continues to assert its claim for reunification. Military incursions and threats raise tensions and could potentially lead to armed conflict.
Military Modernization: China's significant investment in military expansion and advancement create apprehension among neighbors and rival powers. Concerns focus on the potential imbalance in the Indo-Pacific region.

Global Technology and Data Governance

Cybersecurity and Technology Competition: China's progress in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and 5G poses challenges on a global scale. Security concerns regarding their telecommunications infrastructure, surveillance abilities, and their ambition for influence over technological standards fuel tensions.
Data Control and Privacy: The extensive data collection by Chinese tech companies, combined with the use of social monitoring systems, raises issues around data privacy, the potential for international espionage, and the export of technologies for authoritarian purposes.