The U.S. and China: The Struggle for World Leadership

At the Pearson Partners Spotlight Series™ breakfast held on December 12, 2023, “The U.S. and China: The Struggle for World Leadership,” we convened a distinguished panel of thought leaders in economics, geopolitics and trade to discuss one of the most pressing global issues. This installment in our quarterly breakfast series provided a platform for an enlightening dialogue on the evolving dynamics of U.S. and China relations. As tensions continue to escalate between the two global superpowers, the implications for business, the economy and our community have never been more significant.

Pearson Partners Spotlight Series™ Breakfast Q4 2023

Keith Pearson, Chairman and CEO of Pearson Partners, kicked off the event, setting the stage for an engaging discussion led by a panel of experts specializing in U.S./China relations:

Michael Frank (Senior Fellow, Wadhwani Center for AI and Advanced Technologies – Center for Strategic and International Studies), bringing a broad geopolitical perspective
Admiral Patrick M. Walsh, PhD, Four-Star Admiral, Retired, United States Navy, with significant firsthand experience in military and strategic affairs
Ashley K. Yablon, Attorney at Law, an author and former expat with extensive experience working in major Chinese telecom companies
Stephen Konstans (Moderator), former Senior Vice President and Financial Officers Practice Leader, Pearson Partners International

Key takeaways from the discussion for the next five to ten years in the context of U.S./China relations, along with related quotes (anonymously attributed) included:

Strategic Global Positioning

The discussion on military and economic strategies between the U.S. and China stressed the importance of strategic positioning in a rapidly changing global landscape.

“Adapting to China’s business culture is not just challenging; it is crucial for success. It’s about understanding a different way of doing business.”– Pearson Partners Spotlight Series Panelist

Risk Management in International Operations

The panel’s insights into China’s political and economic policies provided a framework for understanding and managing risks in international operations, especially in volatile geopolitical climates.

“We are witnessing a significant shift in military power balance—one that requires a thoughtful and proactive response from the U.S.”– Pearson Partners Spotlight Series Panelist

Navigating Supply Chain Challenges

Insights into the global trade tensions between the U.S. and China reminded us of the potential volatility in supply chains and the importance of diversifying suppliers.

“It’s not just about territorial claims. It is a strategic move to control crucial global trade routes.”– Pearson Partners Spotlight Series Panelist

Innovation and Competitive Edge

The discussion on the technological race between the U.S. and China reinforced the need to invest in innovation to maintain a competitive edge in the global market.

“The U.S.-China trade relationship is at a crossroads. It is a complex interplay of competition and interdependence.”– Pearson Partners Spotlight Series Panelist

Importance of Geopolitical Awareness

The session highlighted the importance of being aware of geopolitical developments and their potential impacts on various aspects of multinational operations, from trade to investment strategies.

“[This is]… the most important foreign policy challenge for the United States in the 21st century. We are entering a period of potentially maximum danger for this relationship.”– Pearson Partners Spotlight Series Panelist

The event concluded with a vibrant Q&A session with our audience. Keith Pearson wrapped up the discussion by reflecting on the insights shared by the panelists. He noted the complexity of the relationship between the U.S. and China and its implications for global leadership, underscoring the need for a strategic, informed approach to handling the complex interplay of economic, political and cultural factors in this pivotal geopolitical contest.

Learn more about the Pearson Partners Spotlight Series™ breakfast events.