Campaign 2012: The Global Economy and China

United States-China relations have been at the forefront of domestic and foreign policy discussions throughout this campaign season. Since joining the World Trade Organization in 2001, China’s economy has been established as a major player in the global economy and continues to grow. The country’s rise has significant implications for U.S. trade and defense policies, particularly on contentious issues like the global financial crisis, nuclear proliferation, military operations in nearby waters and air space and intellectual property rights. As both nations face daunting political and economic challenges, how can the next president improve relations with China while ensuring America’s success in the global economy?

On October 9, the Campaign 2012 project at Brookings held a discussion on the global economy and China, the last in a series of forums that have identified and addressed the 12 most critical issues facing the next president. Campaign 2012 Project Director Benjamin Wittes moderated a panel discussion with Brookings experts Kenneth Lieberthal, Jonathan Pollack, Richard Bush, and Joshua Meltzer, who presented recommendations for the next president.

Participants may follow the conversation on Twitter using the hashtag #BIChina.

Download papers from the event:

• Establishing Credibility and Trust, by Kenneth G. Lieberthal and Jonathan Pollack 
• Continue Progress on an Key Trade Relationship, by Joshua Meltzer 
• Thoughts on China and American Elections, by Richard Bush 

Campaign 2012: Twelve Independent Ideas for Improving American Public Policy is an indispensable guide to the key questions facing White House hopefuls in 2012.