The #AskAbhijit Show #AskAbhijit 286: Trump, Japan PM Resigns, GST, Tech Sovereignty, SpaceX, Malacca, Israel, Manipur,
Sep 8, 2025
The discussion kicks off with a lively exploration of current global dynamics, including Africa's growing significance in geopolitics. Insights into shifting India-US relations reveal a call for India to enhance hard power amidst underlying tensions. There's a deep dive into the implications of rising Islamic populations on cultural systems in the West and Japan. The historical power of the US dollar is examined, along with geopolitical shifts as nations like Russia and China explore new currencies. Finally, the complex tapestry of Manipur's history is woven into today's geopolitical landscape, adding a rich context.
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Episode notes
Africa Is Contested, Not Primary
- Africa is contested by the US, France, China, Russia and India but is not the primary global battleground.
- The major geostrategic battleground today is Eurasia/Indo-Pacific, especially Asia and the Indian Ocean.
Prioritise Hard Power First
- Do not prioritise soft power over hard power; build economic and military strength first.
- Invest in literacy, education and cultural promotion to convert hard power into lasting influence.
Technological Sovereignty Is Strategic
- Technological sovereignty is essential for political independence from the West.
- India must build its own semiconductor, data center and social media stack to avoid external leverage.
