In this lecture eminent China scholar David Shambaugh will discuss his new book  Where Great Powers Meet. Currently, the United States and China are engaged in a broad-gauged and global competition for power and influence. While this competition ranges across the entire world, it is centered in Asia — most notably in the critical sub-region of Southeast Asia. The United States and China constantly vie daily for position and influence across this enormously significant area — and the outcome of this contest will do much to determine whether Asia leaves the American orbit after seven decades and falls into a new Chinese sphere of influence. Just as importantly, to the extent that there is a global 'power transition' occurring from the U.S. to China, the fate of Southeast Asia will be a good indicator of how it may play out. Both powers bring important strengths and weaknesses to bear in their competition. 

Speaker:

David Shambaugh is Gaston Sigur Professor of Asian Studies, Political Science, & International Affairs and the founding Director of the China Policy Program in the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University. He is an internationally recognized authority and award-winning author on contemporary China and the international relations of Asia. He previously served as Editor of The China Quarterly and was Reader in Chinese Politics at the University of London's School of Oriental & African Studies (SOAS).