Jack Lew Says Iran Sanctions Were ‘Very Effective’

The transcript discusses the importance of the US-China relationship, emphasizing trust and candor. It highlights the role of sanctions as a powerful policy tool, particularly in multilateral contexts, and their effectiveness in cases like Iran. The discussion also covers the impact of sanctions on Russia and the challenges with North Korea, stressing the importance of US-China cooperation in applying economic pressure.

Why is personal interaction particularly important in US-China relations?

• It allows for unilateral actions.

• It establishes trust and candor.

• It helps in ignoring hard issues.

• It reduces the need for sanctions.

What was a significant achievement in US-China cooperation during the Obama administration?

• A UN Security Council resolution

• Increased military presence in Asia

• A trade agreement with North Korea

• Unilateral sanctions on North Korea

How did the US fine-tune its approach to sanctions?

• By increasing military involvement

• By reducing international cooperation

• By making them more unilateral

• By making them more surgical and precise

What was the impact of sanctions on Iran?

• They brought Iran to the bargaining table.

• They resulted in military conflict.

• They led to increased nuclear activity.

• They had no significant effect.

Why is US-China cooperation crucial in dealing with North Korea?

• China has no influence over North Korea.

• Few countries can exert meaningful economic pressure on North Korea.

• North Korea is heavily connected to the world.

• The US prefers unilateral actions.