The high ceiling of the lobby lounge at the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is a place where one can chill over afternoon tea on the plush sofas or, if one prefers, have a serious discussion about China's role in the world. After the 2018 Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia's premier defence summit, I had the privilege of talking to retired People's Liberation Army (PLA) Major-General Yao Yunzhu. Please subscribe or log in to continue reading the full article. Get unlimited access to all stories at $0.99/month Latest headlines and exclusive stories In-depth analyses and award-winning multimedia content Get access to all with our no-contract promotional package at only $0.99/month for the first 3 months*