About this Video

• Video Title: Great Powers and the Contours of International Relations
• Channel: Malcolm H. Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center
• Speakers: Mahaya (Director, Malcolm H. Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center), Rosa Balfour (Director, Carnegie Brussels), Ashley Tellis (Tata Chair for Strategic Affairs, Carnegie), Tong Dao (Senior Fellow, Carnegie China), Timur Umarov (Fellow, Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center)
• Duration: 01:03:10

Introduction

This panel discussion examines the global outlook for 2024, focusing on great power dynamics and their influence on international relations. The discussion analyzes the evolving competition among major powers, including the US, China, Russia, and the impact of regional conflicts like the war in Ukraine and the conflict in Gaza. The speakers offer diverse perspectives on shifting alliances, technological advancements, economic factors, and the future of the global order.

Key Takeaways

• Growing Cooperation between Russia and China: While outwardly showing unity to challenge US dominance, internal divisions exist within China regarding the extent of cooperation with Russia. China prioritizes maintaining a stable relationship with the US and the West, particularly given its economic challenges.
• Differing Approaches to Global Order Change: China favors incremental change, while Russia seeks immediate and radical transformation of the global order. This difference in approach significantly impacts their interactions and strategies.
• US Perspective on Russia-China Relations: The US views Sino-Russian cooperation as problematic, particularly concerning the war in Ukraine. The US recognizes the asymmetry in capabilities between Russia and China, and seeks to exploit existing tensions in their relationship.
• India's Strategic Balancing Act: India strategically utilizes existing global cleavages to maximize its influence, maintaining a delicate balance between aligning with the US, preserving its relationship with Russia, and managing its antagonism with China. India's focus on indigenous defense production reflects a desire for strategic autonomy.
• EU's Position and Challenges: The EU struggles to define its role in the US-China bipolarity and broader multipolarity. The war in Ukraine and the conflict in Gaza have significantly impacted the EU's unity and its ability to influence global events. The EU's approach to China is more nuanced than the US, focusing on economic reciprocity and security.

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