How the Chinese telecom firm built a global presence by chasing rogue regimes like Iraq — and attracted U.S. ire in the process.
Illustration by Luis Grañena
On December 17, 1998, at 20 minutes after midnight, the eerie wail of air-raid sirens pierced the dark sky over Baghdad. The horizon exploded with bursts of light as Iraqi anti-aircraft guns sprayed fire. American B‑52H planes were bombing the Iraqi capital.
At the Chinese embassy earlier in the evening, the mood had been light. No one seriously expected the Americans to attack. Still, just in case, embassy staff had distributed bulletproof vests and helmets. Now, with sirens scr
Exclusive longform investigative journalism, Q&As, news and analysis, and data on Chinese business elites and corporations. We publish China scoops you won't find anywhere else.
A weekly curated reading list on China from Andrew Peaple.
A daily roundup of China finance, business and economics headlines.
We offer discounts for groups, institutions and students. Go to our Subscriptions page for details.
A podcast about the turbulent relationship between the world's two superpowers, the two men who run them, and the vital issues that affect us all.
In a special bonus episode recorded live at the Asia Society, host Jane Perlez speaks with journalist and scholar Orville Schell about his 50 years covering Chinese leaders and their American counterparts. They attempt to answer the question: how did we get here?
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.OKPrivacy policy