Paris: The New Switzerland
Wharton alumni and leaders shared insights at the Asia Society France Summer Summit held in Paris.
In Liu Cixin’s Three-Body Problem, survival depends on navigating a system where three forces pull simultaneously. Similarly, today’s geopolitics involve three major powers: the United States, China, and the European Union.
While Europe cannot rival Washington or Beijing in hard power, Paris has emerged as neutral ground—a place where rivals can test ideas without the intensity of capital politics. This was clearly demonstrated during the Asia Society Summer Summit in Paris.
Duncan Clark, founding trustee and co-chair of Asia Society France, explained, “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 thus provides a unique platform for thoughtful discussion on complex global issues beyond traditional power struggles.
Author's summary: Paris has become a strategic neutral forum where global powers engage honestly on complex issues, transcending simple political binaries.