In the wake of the global financial crisis, some have dubbed China and the United States the G2, a name that signifies their centrality in resolving the world's economic and political problems. Even so, the relationship between China and the Unites States is rife with new tensions as both countries fight their way back to economic health. Trade and currency challenges persist on both sides, often hampered by high-stakes domestic politics. Such issues are further complicated by security concerns in the Middle East, Asia, and elsewhere. In its annual conference to honor the memory of eminent China scholar Michel Oksenberg, Stanford's Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center (APARC) will gather a group of distinguished analysts to examine these points and what the future might hold.
The Oksenberg Lecture, held annually, honors the legacy of Professor Michel Oksenberg (1938-2001). A senior fellow at Shorenstein APARC and the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, Professor Oksenberg served as a key member of the National Security Council when the United States normalized relations with China, and consistently urged that the United States engage with Asia in a more considered manner. In tribute, the Oksenberg Lecture recognizes distinguished individuals who have helped to advance understanding between the United States and the nations of the Asia-Pacific.
In 2009 the decision was made to expand this series from it's original lecture format to a workshop in order to bring scholars and policy makers together to discuss the ever changing role China is playing in today's world. This new format allows for the exchange of ideas and opinions amongst today's top experts.