Indiscriminate U.S. tariffs have triggered a global uproar, unsettling markets across continents. In response, the Chinese mainland issued a stern warning, accusing Washington of ignoring its partners' concerns.
Meanwhile in Malaysia, CGTN editor Li Chaoran toured the nation's first university funded by the Malaysian-Chinese community. Here, students immerse themselves in classical Chinese prose, including On Six States, a Warring States Period essay (475–221 BC) analyzing how six rival states fell one by one to Qin around 230–210 BC.
The author uses history to critique his present, condemning leaders who repeatedly offered concessions to powerful rivals. “Even small yields can invite larger demands,” Li Chaoran reflects. This ancient cautionary tale speaks directly to countries facing external pressure today.
For Southeast Asian nations, where countless communities rely on exports to the United States, these lessons feel close to home. By studying On Six States, policymakers can learn to balance pragmatic engagement with firm negotiation—diversifying partnerships, reinforcing domestic industries, and avoiding incremental losses.
As global trade patterns shift, the blend of historical insight and modern strategy offers a fresh toolkit. Ancient wisdom reminds us: true resilience lies in knowing when to concede and when to stand firm.
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Chinese wisdom shared with world: How to respond to U.S. tariffs
cgtn.com
