Global Trends 2030: Alternative Worlds is a study by the US National Intelligence Council assesses how the world might evolve over the next two decades. The latest iteration, released in December, concentrates much of its analysis on China’s role in the world.

North Korea's third nuclear test is a game changer not only for the United States and Japan, but also for the regime’s last ally, China. The official Chinese reaction to North Korea’s latest provocation was stern: China is “strongly dissatisfied and resolutely opposed” to the test, and it is calling for the resumption of international talks.

While the United Nations Security Council discusses the possibility of even more sanctions against North Korea, Su Xiaohui promotes a new approach to stabilize tensions.