Christopher Flynn’s Post

Millions of jobs hinge on U.S. trade with the rest of the Western Hemisphere. A recent boom in development across the region underscores the critical role of these relations. On June 19th, we hosted a Global Business Briefing with The Honorable Brian Andrew Nichols, Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. From key investments in nations such as Costa Rica, Panama, and Brazil to the impact of elections in Mexico and Venezuela, the discussion highlighted increasing competition in the Americas driven by significant infrastructure investments from global players, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to strengthen its economic presence and engagement in the region. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gCeTDVKv

Great piece in Foreign Affairs on why the US needs to engage more with the Global South, especially the G-20. As the article notes, there is also a weariness toward China because of its actions, but that doesn't mean people will default towards US leadership. "The United States is failing in the global South. Its popularity and influence have waned, and policies that recent U.S. administrations have designed to close the gap have fallen short. Allegations of hypocrisy that countries in the global South now make—centered on the claim that the United States has supported Ukraine but has been complicit in mass death and suffering in Gaza and Lebanon—reflect historic skepticism that Washington’s advocacy for international norms reflects a commitment to humanitarian principles rather than self-interest, and a growing perception that developing countries bear the cost of uneven U.S. leadership. The disproportionate struggle that many global South countries faced in recovering economically from the Covid-19 pandemic only added to their disappointment with advanced economies’ so-called vaccine nationalism. The United States’ rejection of free trade has shrunk sought-after market access opportunities, while new industrial policies raise fresh hurdles. As a result, despite making significant strides in its economic and strategic engagement with the global South, the United States faces a trust deficit. Countries in the global South have attempted to press the United States for better engagement in multilateral forums. But addressing the trust deficit through these postwar institutions has not been effective, because they have become part of the problem. They have failed to adapt to a new distribution of power, fueling charges of hypocrisy and breeding competitive multilateralism. Antagonistic alternatives—from the expanded BRICS to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization—are vying for influence. Neither American nor Western leadership is the only game in town, and more than ever, the United States must earn its partnerships with rising powers such as Brazil, India, and Indonesia." https://lnkd.in/gQm-gcja

Is Australia U.S. Alliance the Right Choice in China’s Rise? #AustraliaChinaRelations, #AustraliaUSAlliance, #BeltandRoad, #GlobalPolitics   Exploring Australia U.S. alliance amidst China’s Belt and Road Initiative and its implications on global multi-polarity.   Australia’s strategic alliance with the U.S. is long-standing, but with the dramatic rise in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), this partnership is being questioned.   Most of the world now supports China’s multi-polar approach, challenging U.S. dominance. Is Australia on the wrong side of history supporting the U.S.?   https://lnkd.in/gFuWS8xN

The last line in the below paragraph may be most important. There are good justifications for scrutinizing the traditional U.S. approach to trade policy - rushing to ink free trade agreements for the sake of having something concrete and binding on paper, but often without sufficient pre- and post-assessment of the efficacy and mutual benefits of those agreements - and instead taking a more methodical approach to first building alignment on foundational economic and trade principles with international partners. However, the fact is that many countries in Latin America are asserting their desire for comprehensive trade agreements with the U.S. and Europe and we are largely dithering and failing to engage in any meaningful way with that demand, all while China makes moves on all fronts and considerable economic gains in the region. More coordinated U.S.-EU trade policy with the region would in principle be very strategic, but we need more thoughtful and tailored offerings on a bilateral and multilateral level. "The U.S. actively seeks to maintain regional influence as its global competition with China intensifies. Meanwhile, the European Union has also attempted to remain competitive with Beijing in Latin America as it has lost ground to its so-called systemic rival in regional trade and financing. Both powers seek to shore up their commercial credentials with LAC’s economies while facing little domestic appetite for free trade agreements." (views expressed in this post are my own and should not be interpreted as reflecting the view of the U.S. Government and Department of Commerce) #latinamerica #unitedstates #europeanunion #americalatina #estadosunidos #unioneuropea #tradepolicy #politicadecomercio #economiccooperation #cooperacioneconomica

🇨🇳☕ As beautiful, young Chinese #women served #tea to thousands of mainly middle-aged and elderly male delegates, it became apparent that little would emerge from #China’s rubber-stamping legislature to halt a crisis of confidence now enveloping the #economy. Time Magazine’s Charlie Campbell opined that “in many ways, inertia was inevitable.” “Key economic policies are typically decided by the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) Third Plenum, a five-yearly plenary session of its Central Committee that is especially geared toward economic development. The Third Plenum should typically have happened by October and the fact that it still hasn’t is unprecedented and a subject of no little conjecture,” he wrote. Nis Grünberg, lead analyst for politics and society at Berlin-based Mercator Institute for China Studies, said that “the enhanced focus on #investment in #technology and developing emerging industries,” revealed that “China is trying to develop its way out of economic hardship.” But that would almost certainly create “more conflict with the U.S.” and generate new White House export controls on sensitive tech. On that note, even clearer signals of policy direction reverberated through the halls of the legislature’s Media Center when, during a press conference, Kremlin-lovin’ top diplomat Wang Yi devoted an entire monologue to deepening ties with #Russia, and another to berating the U.S. for suppressing China with a “unilateral #sanctions list reaching bewildering levels of unfathomable absurdity.” Rumors of a shakeup in the officialdom were “swirling” ahead of the Two Sessions, especially since the sackings of former foreign minister Qin Gang and defense minster Li Shangfu have left glaring, months-long vacancies in the State Council. Experts believed that Wang Yi’s “reappointment” to the office he once held “was intended to be temporary,” and that Liu Jianchao, a senior party cadre who’s been running around #Europe pretending to broker #peace between Russia and #Ukraine, might be announced at the NPC as Qin's permanent replacement. But that didn’t happen, and Wang snuggled so tightly with Moscow’s propaganda as he lambasted the West and the current #international order, that he seemed professionally - and nationally - conflicted. Or maybe he’s using the current gig to promote himself as a leading candidate in Xi's succession. ... At any rate, Wang’s "to Russia with love" and "to hell with the U.S." speech certainly made an impression. It upstaged critical announcements at China’s Two Sessions that were supposed to steady the ship, not bounce it. If the party truly wants to speak with one voice whilst instilling confidence - how ‘bout flipping the kill-switch on Wang and his ridiculous histrionics. #news #business #geopolitics  **** ➡️ No paywall! 😏 Have a great weekend. 🥞

China’s Role in the Global South: The G7’s new Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment (PGII), a $600 billion plan, aims to build infrastructure across the Global South and counter China’s BRI. However, experts suggest that this initiative could inadvertently improve how Chinese companies do business and enhance the BRI itself2. India’s Leadership of the Global South: India, as the Chair of the G20 in 2023, has reaffirmed its commitment to respond to the needs of developing countries. It aims to address challenges related to poverty alleviation, energy transition, and finance by establishing value chains that empower Global South nations for local processing3. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI):The BRI is a massive global infrastructure development project initiated by China. It encompasses both the land-based “Silk Road Economic Belt” and the “Maritime Silk Road.” Economic and Strategic Ambitions: The BRI reflects China’s global ambitions, although its intent—whether purely economic or strategic—has raised concerns. While some projects have been economically beneficial, there are strategic implications that contradict the benign portrayal4. Global Impact: The BRI aims to restore global balance and expand universally beneficial relationships. It involves investments in infrastructure, trade, and connectivity across Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond5. India’s Role in Shaping International Relations:Largest Democracy and Global Role: India’s status as the world’s largest democracy influences its international role. It seeks to lead the Global South and engage with Western partners. Democracy Promotion: While India prioritizes pragmatism over explicit democracy promotion, it subtly emphasizes good governance through technology democratization. Digital public infrastructure (DPI) cooperation with the West is an emerging area of collaboration in the Global South6. Strategic Autonomy: India balances its national identity and commitment to “strategic autonomy.” It champions principles like the rule of law, diversifies trade partners, and advocates for equitable global governance7. Bridge Between Developed and Developing Nations: India can serve as a bridge, fostering dialogue and cooperation between developed and developing countries8. In summary, the G7’s actions, China’s BRI, and India’s leadership all play critical roles in shaping global dynamics and international relations. India’s democratic values, strategic autonomy, and technology-driven governance contribute to its unique position on the world stage.  #Think7 #G7 #China #Italy #GlobalSouth #BRI #HistoricEconomies #BRICS #ThinkBRICS

As we navigate the intricate landscape of global challenges and opportunities leading up to the 2024 U.S. presidential elections, it's clear that a shift in foreign policy strategy is essential. The imperative for collaborative, inclusive leadership has never been more critical, especially in addressing economic stability, global security, and climate change. Embracing reforms in international economic institutions, strengthening global alliances, and fostering innovation in green technologies are not just policy choices; they are necessary steps towards ensuring a prosperous, secure future for the United States and the world. This moment calls for visionary leadership that prioritizes global cooperation and strategic engagement, setting the stage for a future where America leads not by retreating, but by actively shaping a world marked by peace, prosperity, and sustainability. Written By: Lorenzo Izzi https://lnkd.in/dEQ-Br2Z

The article discusses the importance of public-private partnerships in economic security and Japan's role in this context. It emphasizes the need for collaboration, supply chain resilience, and international cooperation to address economic security challenges. The author highlights Japan's actions in strengthening its economic security through partnerships and industry dialogue. Highlights: - Japan takes timely actions to strengthen its economic security through collaboration with partners and industry dialogue. - Supply chain resilience and international cooperation are key strategies for addressing economic security challenges. - Extensive dialogue with the private sector is essential to effectively address issues such as supply chain resilience and export control challenges. - The government should increase transparency and predictability through dialogue to encourage private sector cooperation on economic security. - Coordination with other governments is crucial to prevent Japanese companies from being disadvantaged by economic security policies. Relevance to Civil Society and National Security: Public-private partnerships play a vital role in ensuring economic security, which is essential for the stability and progress of civil society. By collaborating with industry and addressing challenges such as supply chain resilience, governments can protect critical industries, maintain competitiveness, and safeguard national security interests. The article highlights Japan's proactive approach in strengthening its economic security, which serves as a model for other countries facing similar challenges. Why is this relevant? In an interconnected global economy, economic security is a critical aspect of national security. Public-private partnerships provide a framework for governments and industries to work together, leveraging each other's strengths and resources to address economic security challenges effectively. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration, supply chain resilience, and international cooperation in safeguarding economies and protecting vital industries. By understanding and implementing these strategies, businesses can navigate risks, ensure continuity, and contribute to the overall stability and prosperity of society. Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/eA54Dkq3 You’ve spent years mastering your career field…Now, join nearly 18,000 academics and professionals in expanding their world view on crisis management. Are you ready? Sign up and get insights, articles, and opportunities delivered directly to your inbox every week. https://lnkd.in/eqng5rpn #PublicPrivatePartnerships #EconomicSecurity #SupplyChainResilience #InternationalCooperation

We make a pitch for Trump to double down on a challenging agenda with high rewards. The G20 can be at the center of this. America’s Last Chance With the Global South | Foreign Affairs. with Max Yoeli