Amb. Storella Explores Henry Kissinger’s Legacy and U.S.-China Relations
Ambassador Mark Storella, Professor of the Practice of Diplomacy; Director, African Studies Center, recently shared his insights on “The San Francisco Experience” podcast. The episode, which aired on December 8, 2023, delves into the enduring legacy of Henry Kissinger and explores the evolving dynamics of U.S.-China relations.
In the podcast conversation hosted by Jim Herlihy, Amb. Storella provided a comprehensive analysis of Kissinger’s approach to statecraft. The discussion highlighted Kissinger’s pivotal role in shaping a durable world order by emphasizing a delicate balance among major powers. The podcast delved into historical events, particularly Nixon and Kissinger’s groundbreaking triangular diplomacy with China and the Soviet Union during their visits to China in 1971 and 1972.
Over the course of more than 100 trips to China spanning a century, Kissinger served as a vital advisor and mediator between the United States and China. Amb. Storella and Herlihy explored Kissinger’s consistent advocacy for a cooperative approach between the two nations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship.
The conversation also delved into Kissinger’s more recent perspectives on the intersection of geopolitics and technology. In his penultimate book, “The Age of AI and Our Human Future,” Kissinger, along with coauthors Eric Schmidt and Daniel Huttenlocher, discussed the emerging race for strategic AI advantage, particularly between the United States and China. The trio underscored the critical need for a balanced power dynamic that considers the implications of artificial intelligence.
Even in the twilight of his life, Kissinger remained actively engaged in diplomatic endeavors. His final mission included a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on July 20, 2023, during which he likely carried messages from President Biden. The subsequent meeting between Presidents Biden and Xi at the Filoli estate outside San Francisco in November resulted in easing bilateral tensions, agreements on the control of fentanyl precursor chemicals, the reestablishment of military-to-military contacts, and the initiation of a dialogue on AI and its impact.
In reflecting on these events, Professor Storella highlighted the enduring influence of Kissinger as a centenarian statesman, noting that he continued to shape world affairs until the final months of his life.
Listeners interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Henry Kissinger’s legacy and the ongoing complexities of U.S.-China relations can access the podcast episode on “The San Francisco Experience” website: link.
Ambassador Mark C. Storella was a United States Foreign Service Officer for over three decades serving as Ambassador to Zambia, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees, and Migration, and Dean of the Leadership and Management School of the Foreign Service Institute. Storella is a recipient of the Presidential Rank Award, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Excellence in Service Award, the Thomas Jefferson Award presented by American Citizens Abroad, and several Department of State superior and meritorious honor awards. Learn more about Ambassador Storella on his faculty profile.