US & China can collaborate to protect the environment and international security

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                                          Source: Doug Mills, New York Times

Robert Rubin, the former Treasury Secretary and head of the Council on Foreign Relations argues that collaboration between the U.S. and China is critical to make progress on the issue of climate change and protecting the world from the dangers of nuclear weapons. The U.S. and China are the two largest economies in the world and have the opportunity invest in clean energy technology and adopt strict environmental protection rules. Two big barriers to progress are President Trump's status as a climate doubter and the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China. Additionally with countries like North Korea and Pakistan becoming growing nuclear threats and the history of global conflicts, the risks posed by nuclear weapons must be considered carefully.

Discussion Questions
1. Can two countries with political and economic differences overcome their disagreements and collaborate to solve major international challenges?
2. What do you believe the U.S. and China should do to minimize the risks posed by nuclear weapons in the future?
3. How should nations like the U.S. and China act in the face of a massive global challenge such as global warming?