Paris as a New Neutral Ground
In Liu Cixin’s Three-Body Problem, survival hinges on navigating a system where three forces act simultaneously. Similarly, today’s geopolitics is shaped by three major powers: the United States, China, and the European Union.
While Europe cannot compete with Washington or Beijing in hard power, Paris has emerged as a neutral space where rivals can exchange ideas free from the intensity of capital politics. This approach was clear during the Asia Society France Summer Summit held in Paris.
Insights from the Asia Society France Summer Summit
“We designed Paris as a place to transcend binaries — beyond ‘hawk’ or ‘dove,’ beyond capital-to-capital talking points. China’s decisions now shape supply chains, tech standards, and climate outcomes worldwide. You need a room where that complexity can be explored with rigor — and without theatrics.” — Duncan Clark, founding trustee and co-chair of Asia Society France
The summit highlighted Paris’s unique role as a platform to handle complex global issues with nuance and depth.
Why Paris Matters
- Acts as a neutral ground for global dialogue
- Facilitates discussions on critical topics like supply chains, technology, and climate
- Enables exchanges beyond simple geopolitical binaries
Conclusion
Paris is becoming a crucial space where global powers engage thoughtfully, transcending traditional confrontations and fostering more complex discussions on pressing international matters.
Author’s summary: Paris serves as a vital neutral platform where global powers explore complex geopolitical challenges collaboratively, distancing dialogue from direct rivalry and political theatrics.