Global Times' note: As the competition waged by the United States against China seems to continue to intensify, the divergence of the two countries' political philosophy becomes increasingly prominent. What is the main difference between these two approaches to see the world? How has it affected the current global reality? What is behind Washington's 'strategic deterrence' mentality? Global Times (GT) reporter Xia Wenxin discussed these issues with Ivan Timofeev, director general of the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC).

GT: What role do think tanks such as RIAC play in Russia? How does RIAC advise the Russian government on the current international situation?