**Hong Kong Urged to Sharpen Geopolitical Acumen Amidst US-China Tensions: Kishore Mahbubani**
In the midst of escalating tensions between the United States and China, Hong Kong has been advised to cultivate its geopolitical acumen to adeptly navigate the shifting global landscape. Kishore Mahbubani, a distinguished former diplomat from Singapore, emphasised the importance of this strategic development during a recent lecture in Hong Kong. Mahbubani, who has served as Singapore’s permanent representative to the United Nations and held the position of president of the UN Security Council, addressed the evolving dynamics of global power, highlighting the transition from a Western-centric order to a more multipolar world.
Speaking at the Fullerton Forum, a lecture series organised by the University of Hong Kong’s Centre on Contemporary China and the World, Mahbubani underscored the necessity for Hong Kong to leverage its unique position under the “one country, two systems” framework. He argued that Hong Kong’s distinctiveness from mainland China should be seen as an asset, urging local leaders to articulate this differentiation more effectively on both domestic and international fronts.
Mahbubani remarked, “At the end of the day, Beijing wants Hong Kong to succeed, and one of the reasons why … is because the United States doesn’t want Hong Kong to succeed.” His comments reflect the complex geopolitical tug-of-war in which Hong Kong finds itself, caught between two global superpowers with competing interests. The former diplomat warned that Hong Kong could become a “political football” in the ongoing US-China contest, making it imperative for the city’s establishment to develop robust geopolitical instincts.
The backdrop to Mahbubani’s remarks is a world witnessing significant geopolitical shifts. Historically, the global order has been dominated by Western powers, especially following the end of the Cold War. However, recent decades have seen the rise of Asian economies, with China at the forefront, challenging the traditional dominance of the West. This shift towards a multipolar world, where power is more evenly distributed among various global players, necessitates a recalibration of strategies for regions like Hong Kong.
Hong Kong’s strategic importance cannot be overstated. As a global financial hub, it serves as a critical gateway between China and the rest of the world. Its legal and financial systems, distinct from those of mainland China, have long been seen as pillars of its success. However, the city has also been a focal point of international attention, especially following the pro-democracy protests in 2019 and the subsequent implementation of the national security law by Beijing in 2020. These developments have drawn criticism from Western nations, including the United States, which has imposed sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials deemed responsible for undermining the city’s autonomy.
In this context, Mahbubani’s call for Hong Kong to sharpen its geopolitical instincts is particularly pertinent. The city’s ability to maintain its unique position and navigate the intricacies of international relations will be crucial in determining its future trajectory. This involves not only understanding the broader geopolitical currents but also effectively communicating Hong Kong’s value proposition to both Beijing and the international community.
Mahbubani also touched upon the broader implications of the US-China rivalry, suggesting that the West should be prepared to cede ground to emerging powers within international organisations. This perspective aligns with the reality of a world where emerging economies, particularly in Asia, are playing increasingly significant roles in global governance. The shift towards a multipolar world order is not just a theoretical concept but a practical reality that requires adaptation from all stakeholders.
The former diplomat’s insights come at a time when Hong Kong is seeking to redefine its role on the global stage. With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce, the city is well-positioned to act as a bridge between East and West. However, this potential can only be realised if Hong Kong successfully navigates the geopolitical challenges posed by the US-China rivalry.
As Mahbubani pointed out, the city’s leaders must be proactive in shaping Hong Kong’s narrative and ensuring that its unique advantages are recognised and leveraged. This involves not only engaging with Beijing but also reaching out to the international community to highlight Hong Kong’s continued relevance and potential as a global financial centre.
In conclusion, the advice offered by Kishore Mahbubani serves as a timely reminder of the importance of strategic foresight in an increasingly complex world. For Hong Kong, developing a keen sense of geopolitical awareness is not just an option but a necessity. As the city charts its course amidst the shifting tides of global power, its ability to adapt and thrive will depend on its leaders’ capacity to anticipate and respond to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
