Global geopolitics is shifting — and fast. In this episode of SMWX, renowned diplomat and global thinker Prof Kishore Mahbubani breaks down the biggest forces shaping the world today — from US–China relations to the Middle East conflict, BRICS, and South Africa’s place in a changing global order. We unpack why the delayed meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping matters, how the global economy has remained resilient despite rising tariffs, and why the current Middle East war could be a strategic advantage for China.
00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – Trump Beijing trip delay
02:12 – Importance of US–China relations
07:22 – Global trade resilience
08:50 – World adapts beyond US tariffs
11:22 – Middle East war impact
13:20 – War as a “gift” to China
16:23 – BRICS & India focus
17:59 – BRICS vs G7
18:39 – France & South Africa controversy
20:05 – Global power shifts (China & India rise)
21:52 – South Africa foreign policy question
22:47 – Advice for South Africa
25:22 – Outro
Source: Prof Kishore Mahbubani speaks out: Iran-US war, China, Trump, India, BRICS, G7