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In the video "US, China and the Future of the Global Order | Kishore Mahbubani," former Singaporean diplomat Kishore Mahbubani discusses the shifting dynamics of global power, the rise of Asia, and his own personal journey.
Key Geopolitical Insights
The End of Western Domination: Mahbubani argues that we are witnessing the end of 200 years of Western domination. The world is moving toward a "3M world": Multi-civilizational, Multi-polar, and Multilateral [26:20].
China’s Long-Term Strategy: He highlights China's focus on reviving its civilization rather than communism. He notes their strategic planning, such as moving from a 5% share of global manufacturing in 2000 to a projected 45% by 2030 [28:50].
The Rise of India: Mahbubani is highly bullish on India, noting that Indian-Americans are the most successful ethnic group in the U.S. and that India's economy will be four times larger than the UK's by 2050 [01:00:53].
Critique of European Leadership: He criticizes current European leaders for a lack of strategic common sense, particularly their failure to welcome Chinese investment in Africa, which he views as a "gift" that helps manage future demographic challenges [08:12].
Advice for the U.S.: Referencing Bill Clinton, he suggests the U.S. should prepare for a world where it is "number two" by strengthening multilateral rules and institutions [23:22].
Personal Reflections and Lessons
Overcoming Poverty: Mahbubani shares his experience growing up in extreme poverty in Singapore, living in a one-bedroom house with six people and dealing with his father's struggles with alcoholism and debt [01:03:23]. He credits his strong mother and the local public library for "saving" him [01:04:14].
Memories of Lee Kuan Yew: He describes Singapore's founding father as the most "intimidating" person he ever met, recalling being scolded by him as a badge of honor [54:27]. However, he notes that in private, Lee was the "best listener in the world" who always wanted to know the truth [55:08].
The "Bullshit" Test: One of the greatest lessons he learned from Singapore’s founding fathers was their ability to "smell bullshit" and cut through fluff to address hard, painful realities [39:55].
Life at 77: Despite being technically retired, Mahbubani says he is busier than ever, driven by a global desire to understand the "Asian Century" [01:05:21].
Singapore’s Success
Zero Tolerance for Corruption: He cites the early decision to jail even high-ranking officials for minor bribes as a foundational pillar of Singapore's success [45:50].
The Global City Concept: He credits S. Rajaratnam for the then-radical idea that a small city cut off from its hinterland could survive by making the entire world its hinterland through globalization [51:05].
