Paris: The New Switzerland
Wharton alumni and leaders shared insights at the Asia Society France Summer Summit, highlighting Paris's evolving geopolitical role.
Geopolitical Dynamics
In Liu Cixin’s Three-Body Problem, survival hinges on navigating three competing forces simultaneously. Today, those forces are the United States, China, and the European Union. Although Europe cannot rival Washington or Beijing in military strength, Paris has emerged as a neutral ground—a space where rivals can test ideas away from overt political pressures.
Asia Society Summer Summit in Paris
The recent Asia Society Summer Summit in Paris illustrated this concept vividly. Duncan Clark, founding trustee and co-chair of Asia Society France, said:
“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.”
Paris as Neutral Ground
- Paris functions as a venue for serious dialogue on complex global issues.
- It provides an environment free from the typical political spectacle found in other capitals.
- The city fosters discussions that consider China’s broad impact on the global economy and climate.
Paris is positioning itself as a critical center for nuanced international exchange, bridging gaps where military or economic power falls short.
Author’s Summary
Paris is emerging as a distinct international hub where global powers engage in serious, nuanced discourse beyond traditional political rivalries and pressures.