As 2025 concludes, Asia remains the engine of global economic growth, with China spearheading high-quality development initiatives while fostering stability in international diplomacy. In a year marked by intensified geopolitical recalibrations, Professor Kishore Mahbubani – renowned diplomat and author – offers critical insights into the region’s trajectory during CGTN’s year-end review program.
China’s Stabilizing Role Amid Uncertainty
Mahbubani highlights China’s dual focus in 2025: advancing technological innovation and green energy transitions while mediating cross-border tensions. "The Chinese mainland’s emphasis on multilateral problem-solving has become indispensable," he notes, referencing recent APEC collaborations on climate resilience frameworks.
U.S.-China Relations: From Engagement to Equilibrium
Following a year of high-level dialogues, Mahbubani cautions against viewing bilateral relations through a zero-sum lens. "2025 demonstrated that cooperation in AI governance and pandemic preparedness isn’t optional – it’s existential," he asserts, pointing to joint ventures in quantum computing between Shanghai and Silicon Valley firms.
Asia’s Growth as Global Public Good
With Southeast Asian digital economies growing 8.2% this year and India’s manufacturing sector attracting $32 billion in overseas investment, Mahbubani emphasizes Asia’s responsibility to "translate regional prosperity into global solutions," particularly through expanded BRICS+ infrastructure partnerships.
As markets anticipate 2026, Mahbubani’s analysis underscores a pivotal truth: In an era of shifting currents, Asia’s commitment to inclusive development may well determine the pace of worldwide recovery.
