China, Iran and the Future Balance of Power
Part of JLF London 2026

Vincent Cable, Sanam Vakil and Martin Wolf in conversation with Navtej Sarna

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As old certainties fade and new alignments emerge, the global balance of power is being reshaped in real time. Vincent Cable, Sanam Vakil, Martin Wolf and Navtej Sarna examine China’s rise, Iran’s strategic positioning, and the shifting dynamics challenging Western dominance in an increasingly multipolar world.

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Saturday 13 June, 11:15

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Food Season Big Weekend

Saturday 13 June, 11:15

The much-loved British Library Food Season returns with the Big Weekend – two days of culinary conversations with leading chefs and cooks, food writers, historians and more. We delve into Ireland’s rich culinary traditions, celebrate Southern American food through the enduring legacy of Edna Lewis, explore curries through a journey around the world, and so much more. Featuring Ruthie Rogers, Andi Oliver, Simon Russell Beale, Felicity Cloake, Aji Akokomi and more.

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A Midsummer Night’s Fairy Tale, with Mermaid Chunky

Saturday 20 June, 18:30

Journey to the magical realm as the Library becomes the setting for a solstice evening of lush sounds, sights and stories. With artists, storytellers, DJs, costumes and carnivalesque processions, the night culminates in a live show by the extraordinary Mermaid Chunky and their fabulous friends. In association with Bad Vibrations.

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Thursday 25 June, 19:00

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Paths Through Britain

Thursday 25 June, 19:00

Britain’s footpaths are more than routes across the landscape – they are centuries-old stories of movement, belief, survival and discovery. In this panel conversation, we explore how ancient tracks, pilgrim ways and long-distance trails reveal a hidden history of how people have travelled slowly through these islands, and why walking still holds such power today. With Nicholas Crane, Phoebe Smith and Chris Butterfield.

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