A Conversation with George Yeo: How Should China Respond to Trump 2.0?

"Instead of the Americans playing on your chessboard, you become a pawn on the American chessboard," former Singapore foreign minister George Yeo commented on the Philippines' attempt to use the US to encroach on China's sovereignty in the South China Sea in an exclusive interview with Media Unlocked.

George Yeo also discussed China's wisdom on war, "China prefers the fruit to ripen on its own and not to pluck it." It is also a message to the Philippines.

According to George Yeo, Trump's return to power brings the potential risk of a trade war, reflecting US fears of losing manufacturing capacity. He noted that although China can help improve the daily livelihoods of Americans, the "demonization" of China in Western media prevents both sides from achieving a "win-win" situation. Americans are being deceived by the Western media in this information war.

He stated that while China is actively embracing globalization, the US and the West are turning to protectionism because they feel insecure about their capability. He believes as the Global South rises, the developing countries will find their own way to the future.