Afghanistan, China & the Decline of U.S. Power
The ignominious debacle in Afghanistan was predictable and predicted. Afghans, like most people, don’t appreciate foreign invaders occupying their country. Just ask the British and the Russians. But the U.S., in its imperial hubris, thought it was different. It would nation-build in Afghanistan and bring democracy to that land. Meanwhile, China is watching the U.S. squander its wealth on military adventures. The decline of U.S. power is evident. In its place, China is rapidly expanding its influence. Its Belt and Road Initiative is an ambitious global infrastructure project, a new Silk Road. China, as the quip goes, had a bad couple of centuries of wars, famine and disease but now it is back. It’s a force to be reckoned with. Its economic clout is increasing and it will soon be the world’s biggest economy.
Interview by David Barsamian.
Speaker
Tariq Ali
Tariq Ali, an internationally renowned writer and activist, was born in Lahore, Pakistan. For many years he has been based in London where he is an editor of New Left Review. A charismatic speaker, he is in great demand all over the world. In his spare time, he is a filmmaker, playwright, and novelist. He is the author of many books including The Clash of Fundamentalisms, Pirates of the Caribbean, Speaking of Empire & Resistance with David Barsamian, The Duel: Pakistan on the Flight Path of American Power, The Obama Syndrome, The Extreme Centre, The Forty-Year War in Afghanistan: A Chronicle Foretold, Winston Churchill: His Times, His Crimes and You Can’t Please All.
Junaid in Pakistan –
This interview is truly a tour-de-force dialogue! I’m forwarding it widely.
Sandra in NM –
Enjoyed listening to your interview with Tariq Ali. Have it in my car to hear a second time.
Jerry Markatos –
It is a delight to hear analysis, history, and insights on the level of this broadly savvy interview! With most mainstream discussions hampered by belly-of-the-beast restraints, we’re lucky to have and support AR. I’m writing to our local community station now, to thank them for understanding the need and the benefit of this and related series.