The Future Is Asian: Commerce, Conflict, and Culture in the 21st Century

Parag Khanna discusses his book The Future Is Asian with Michael Froman and David Westin. (1 hr., 26 min.)

The world has gotten used to hearing “America First” — but is it ready for “Asia First”? Asia is home to 60 percent of the world’s population and more than 30 percent of world GDP. Beyond China and India, the combined economy of ASEAN members is soon to be the fourth-largest. From the Belt and Road Initiative to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, Asia's strategic vision, massive markets and demographic flows are reordering the entire world. What happens when Asia no longer just produces for the West but the West produces for Asia? 

Join us as Parag Khanna delivers a tour of the Asianized 21st century, covering trends in commerce, conflict, and culture. He will be joined in discussion by Michael Froman, who formerly served as President Obama’s principal advisor and negotiator on international trade and investment issues, moderated by Bloomberg's David Westin. The Future Is Asian will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

Speakers

Michael Froman is Vice Chairman and President of Strategic Growth for Mastercard. He previously served as the U.S. Trade Representative during President Obama’s administration from 2013-2017. Prior to joining Mastercard, he was affiliated with the Council on Foreign Relations and continues to serve as a distinguished fellow.

Parag Khanna is Founder and Managing Partner of FutureMap, a data and scenario-based strategic advisory firm, and author of several books, including Connectography: Mapping the Future of Global Civilization and The Second World: Empires and Influence in the New Global Order. He has been a fellow at New America, Brookings, and the Lee Kuan Yew School in Singapore.

David Westin (moderator) is the co-anchor of “Bloomberg Daybreak Americas” and “Bloomberg Markets: Balance of Power.” From 1997 through 2010, Westin was President of ABC News. He is author of Exit Interview, which tells the story of what went on behind the scenes at ABC News in covering the biggest global news events.

The Future Is Asian: Commerce, Conflict, and Culture in the 21st Century by Parag Khanna can be pre-ordered at the Asia Store or through the Asia Store website.

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This program is made possible through the generous support of the Nicholas and Sheila Platt Endowment for Public Policy.