Discussion with Christopher K Johnson on Leadership Change in China: Its Effects in East Asia and Relations with the US

Christopher Johnson, current Senior Adviser and Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, came to GW to speak on China’s leadership transition post-18th Party Congress now that the official leaders and members of the politburo have been released to the public. He gave a very comprehensive briefing on the different aspects the new leadership must tackle ranging from economic reforms, possible political reforms, and foreign policy. He also spoke on China’s upcoming changes in its foreign policy with neighboring countries such as Korea, Japan, as well as the United States. After a series of questions moderated by Professor McCord, the Director of the Sigur Center, he received a gift from the International Affairs Society and expressed how much he enjoyed speaking at the very school he received his Masters Degree from.

Trip to the Pakistani Embassy

The Pakistani Embassy received a group of students of the IAS to receive a briefing by the Pakistani Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr Assad Majeed Khan. He gave a brief history on US-Pakistani relations as well as the relatively current deterioration in relations. He also spoke of Pakistan’s future in the region as well as the easing of tensions between Pakistan and India. He answered various questions ranging from women’s rights to giving a comment on former President Bhutto. After the briefing, the students enjoyed a reception provided by the Embassy staff with delicious Pakistani food and desserts.

Lunch with Professor Series: Professor Chris Tudda

A small group of students had the opportunity to have lunch and small round-table discussion with Professor Chris Tudda, a specialist in the history of US foreign relations who also works in the Department of State. He teaches US Diplomatic History courses, requirements for most Elliott School students. Topics of discussion ranged from career opportunities in the State Department to just simple chat about how well the Nats did in this year’s baseball season!

Trip to the South African Embassy

A group of students visited the South African Embassy and received a briefing on South Africa’s economic and political leadership on the African continent. The First and Second Political Secretaries that are in charge of speaking to Congressmen etc gave us the briefing on South Africa’s changes in the past decades. It was a great event as students asked questions ranging from the leadership in the African Union, issues of land-grabbing, and even asking suggestions for South African universities to do foreign student exchanges.

Trip to Council on Foreign Relations

A group of students had the fortune to go to the Council on Foreign Relations building to receive a briefing by Dr Daniel Markey on the future of Afghanistan in relation to Pakistan and India. Dr Daniel Markey is a senior fellow for India, Pakistan, and South Asia, and spoke to the students regarding the future of Afghanistan in light of the upcoming withdrawal of US-NATO troops by 2014. He gave a quick briefing and proceeded to answer the students’ questions for around 45 minutes. He was a great speaker and helped the students understand the complex issue of Pakistani-Indian relationship with regards to Afghanistan.

On Saturday, February 18th the IAS will be co-hosting a Global Visioning Summit with MENASA. The Global Visioning Summit will be a web-conference call with 12 young professionals in India. Topics of discussion will range from an anti-corruption law currently in the Indian Parlament, democracy, and Indian culture. The Summit will take place between 9:30am-11:30am in Marvin Center 411. 10 IAS members will be chosen to participate in the summit. MENASA is planning on sending 2 of the IAS participants, to be determined at a later date, to Paris and the Middle East next year to participate in a summit abroad.

RSVP

On Monday, February 13th the S. Daniel Abraham Center for Middle East Peace will be leading a discussion on the opportunities and challenges of reaching a comprehensive resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Led by the Center’s President, former seven-term Congressman Robert Wexler, and Senior Vice President Zvika Krieger, “Is Peace Possible?” will be an innovative presentation that engages with the four core issues of the conflict: Borders, Security, Refugees, and Jerusalem. The event will begin at 7:00pm in the Elliott School, room B17.

RSVP

On Friday, February 3rd the International Affairs Society will be visiting the European Union Delegation for a briefing on Transatlantic relations as well as the current economic climate in Europe. We have 30 spots available but they will go fast so please be sure to sign up. The visit is scheduled for 3:00pm and we will be meeting by the clock in Kogan Plaza at 2:30pm. YOU MUST sign up by Wednesday, February 1st if you plan on attending.

Application