French and British Perspectives on the Emergence of China

Date: 1 October 2010

China's emergence on the world scene changes global balances in such a way that it merits collective in-depth reflection. France and the United Kingdom both have similar political and economic interests with regard to China and can only gain by exchanging their views. The seminar of Franco-British dialogue about China's emergence will be organised around several themes and questions:

  • China offers an alternative model of development in which democracy is not a prerequisite for prosperity.  What are the consequences of such a model for our values and our interests? 
  • Are we moving towards a sino-american hegemony, and if so, what are the repercussions for Europe? 
  • What have been the effects of China's growing economy on France and the United Kingdom?
  •  Are we providing ourselves with the tools to better know and understand China?  Should Chinese Studies be given greater priority in France and the United Kingdom?

The seminar shall be hosted by the French Ambassador in London, Maurice Gordault-Montagne, at the Ambassador's Residence. The seminar will be chaired by Jonathan Fenby.